Pasta with sausage and sour cream

Pasta with Sausages and Cream

Looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe? Pasta with sausages and cream is a perfect choice for a quick yet delicious dinner. This recipe combines the rich flavors of sausages with the creamy texture of the cream, resulting in a comforting dish ideal for any occasion. It is an accessible recipe that can be adapted to individual preferences, making it a true classic in everyday cooking.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 300 g fresh sausages (preferably pork or beef)
- 1 can of 200 ml cream (for cooking, with a high-fat content)
- 400 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 200 ml tomato juice (freshly squeezed or canned)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 clove of garlic (optional, for extra flavor)
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the sausages: Start by removing the casing from the sausages. This will allow the meat to brown evenly and break down into small pieces. Using a knife, cut the sausages into small pieces and form meatballs about 1-2 cm in size. This step is important as the meatballs will cook faster and have a pleasant texture.

2. Heating the oil: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. The olive oil will not only help fry the sausages but will also add a light fruity flavor to the dish.

3. Frying the sausages: When the oil is hot, add the sausage meatballs to the skillet. Let them fry, stirring occasionally, until they are evenly browned on all sides. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. Here, if desired, you can also add the clove of garlic, crushed or finely chopped, to enhance the flavor.

4. Preparing the sauce: Once the sausages are well browned, add the tomato juice and bay leaf. Stir well to combine the ingredients, then let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Incorporating the cream: At the end of the cooking time, add the cream to the sauce. Stir well to create a creamy sauce. Let it simmer over low heat for another 2-3 minutes. This step will enrich the sauce and provide a velvety taste.

6. Boiling the pasta: Meanwhile, in a separate pot, boil the pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Make sure they are al dente, as they will continue to cook a little in the sauce. Once ready, drain the pasta, but keep a little of the cooking water.

7. Mixing the pasta with the sauce: Add the boiled pasta to the skillet, over the sausage and cream sauce. Stir well so that all the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a few tablespoons of the reserved water.

8. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan if desired. You can also add a little freshly ground pepper or fresh herbs (such as chopped parsley) for a fresh and aromatic touch.

Serving suggestions: This pasta with sausages and cream pairs perfectly with a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or with a side of grilled vegetables. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a light red wine will complement the meal perfectly.

Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in protein due to the sausages and cream, while the pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy. Additionally, tomato juice is a good source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its cardiovascular health benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use vegetarian sausages instead of meat sausages?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using vegetarian sausages or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- What type of pasta can I use?
You can use any type of pasta you prefer: spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta, depending on your preferences.
- How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you like spicy food, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to taste.

Possible variations:
- Add vegetables: You can add zucchini or mushrooms to the skillet while frying the sausages for a more vegetable-rich meal.
- Use different types of cheese: Instead of Parmesan, you can try feta or ricotta cheese for a different flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you can start cooking and enjoy a delicious meal. Bon appétit!