Frying pan with spätzle and sausages
Spatzle with Sausages and Cherry Tomatoes - A Quick and Tasty Dinner
Total Time: 25 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will present you with a simple and delicious recipe that will help you turn an ordinary meal into a flavorful culinary experience. It’s about spatzle with sausages, a quick and tasty combination, perfect for evenings when time is limited but the appetite is great.
A Brief Introduction to the World of Spatzle
Spatzle, these fluffy and soft noodles, are a versatile ingredient that can be used in countless dishes. Originating from culinary tradition, spatzle are often considered a type of "comfort food," reminiscent of meals with family and friends. These noodles are easy to prepare and pair perfectly with a variety of ingredients, from meat to fresh vegetables. And when we combine them with sausages? The result is simply irresistible!
Ingredients
- 300 g cooked spatzle (if you don’t have fresh spatzle, you can use regular noodles)
- 300 g fresh sausages (I recommend using spicy or Bavarian sausages for an intense flavor)
- 150 g grated mozzarella (for a creamy texture)
- 50 ml olive oil (for its fine aroma)
- 10 cherry tomatoes (for a touch of freshness)
- 1 green chili pepper (for a bit of spice)
- 1 green garlic stalk (for an extra flavor)
- A handful of basil leaves (for decoration and aroma)
- Salt - optional (for taste, but you’ll notice that the ingredients have enough flavors)
Step by Step: How to Prepare This Quick Dinner
1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Slice the sausages diagonally, and you can finely chop the green garlic.
2. Boil the Sausages: In a pot, add water and bring it to a boil. A quick method is to use boiling water from a kettle. This will save you time! Add the sausages and boil them for about 5-7 minutes until they are well cooked.
3. Cook the Spatzle: In a non-stick pan, add the olive oil and let it heat up. Add the sliced sausages and sauté them for 3-4 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
4. Add Garlic and Spatzle: Now, add the green garlic and spatzle. Carefully mix everything, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spatzle spreads its delicious aroma throughout the pan.
5. Incorporate the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and gently stir to avoid crushing them. Let them warm up for a few minutes to release their juice.
6. Final Touch: Finally, sprinkle the grated mozzarella over the dish and stir gently to melt it. Garnish with slices of chili pepper and fresh basil leaves.
7. Serving: Serve the dish hot, enjoying the intense flavors and creamy texture. You can add a little freshly ground pepper or chili flakes if you want an even spicier taste.
Tips and Practical Advice
- Vary the Ingredients: If you don’t have sausages, you can use any type of sausage or even cooked chicken. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or red bell pepper for extra color and nutrients.
- Cook with Dreams: Give it a summer twist by adding some black olives or feta cheese for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Preserve Aroma: Basil leaves added at the end will retain their vibrant color and fresh aroma, so don’t add them too early.
- Cook in Advance: If you want to save time, you can prepare the spatzle and sausages a day ahead and reheat them before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritionally satisfying. Spatzle provides complex carbohydrates, while sausages are a good source of protein. Cherry tomatoes add antioxidants, while basil and garlic contribute essential vitamins and minerals.
Approximate calories per serving: 600 kcal (varies depending on the ingredients used).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought spatzle?
Yes, store-bought spatzle is an excellent choice to save time. Just make sure they are cooked before use.
2. How can I make the recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of oil and mozzarella, and add more vegetables to improve the nutritional profile.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A light lager or a dry white wine are excellent choices. Also, a chilled herbal tea can add a pleasant contrast.
A Personal Note
This recipe was passed down to me by a good friend who used to prepare his dinner quickly after a long day at work. I adapted it a bit, but kept its simple and delicious essence. Every meal is an opportunity to create memories, and I hope this recipe brings you smiles and beautiful moments at the table with your loved ones.
Now, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 300 g cooked spätzle noodles, 300 g fresh sausages [spicy and Bavarian], 150 g grated mozzarella cheese, 50 ml olive oil, 10 cherry tomatoes, 1 green chili pepper, 1 green garlic stalk, 1 handful of basil leaves, salt - optional