Pasta with tomato sauce and sausages

Delicious pasta recipe with sausages and tomato sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

If you are looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe, this pasta with sausages and tomato sauce is the perfect choice. Combining the rich flavors of sausages with the juiciness of tomatoes and the pleasant textures of pasta, this dish will surely become one of your favorites. Besides being easy to prepare, it is also a very versatile recipe, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

A bit of history

Pasta has a fascinating history that spans thousands of years. From the first mention of dried pasta in ancient times to the various shapes and sauces it is served with today, it has evolved and adapted according to culture and available ingredients. This recipe combines an old culinary tradition with accessible ingredients, offering a dish that is both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

- 1 large onion
- 300 g fresh sausages (choose quality sausages for a more intense flavor)
- 500 g tomatoes (you can use fresh or canned tomatoes)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (for added color and sweetness)
- 3 cloves of garlic (for a deep flavor)
- Salt, pepper (to taste)
- Fresh basil (for an aromatic taste)
- 400 g pasta (choose your favorite shape: penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- About 500 ml water (or enough to cover the pasta)
- 3 tablespoons oil (extra virgin olive oil is ideal)
- 1 bay leaf (for a subtle and aromatic taste)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Place the pot over high heat and wait until the water starts to boil. Add the pasta and let it boil for about 5 minutes, making sure not to cook it completely, so it can finish cooking in the sauce.

2. Heat the oil: In a large saucepan, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and wait for it to heat up. You can check if the oil is hot enough by adding a small piece of onion; if it sizzles, it’s ready.

3. Cook the sausages: Cut the sausages into pieces of your desired size and add them to the saucepan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and crispy. This will add a wonderful flavor to your sauce.

4. Add the onion and garlic: Chop the onion finely and add it over the sausages. Mix well and let it sauté for 3-4 minutes. Then, add the chopped garlic cloves, continuing to cook until the onion becomes translucent.

5. Incorporate the vegetables: Chop the tomatoes and yellow bell pepper. You can finely chop them or use a blender to turn them into a smooth sauce. Add the vegetables to the saucepan, mixing well, and cover with a lid. Let them simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finish the sauce: When the vegetables have started to release their juice, add the cooked pasta and enough water to cover everything. Add the bay leaf, salt, pepper, and finely chopped fresh basil. Mix everything well and cover with a lid.

7. Cook everything together: Let it simmer over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring gently to avoid sticking. The sauce will reduce and blend perfectly with the pasta.

8. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with fresh basil and, if desired, grated parmesan on top.

Helpful tips

- Choose quality sausages: Smoked sausages or those with herbs can add extra depth to the sauce.
- Vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to add more textures and flavors.
- Variations: Add olives or artichokes for a Mediterranean taste, or even a bit of chili for a spicy kick.

Nutrition and calories

This sausage pasta recipe contains about 500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It is a balanced meal, rich in carbohydrates and protein, thanks to the pasta and sausages, and packed with vitamins from the vegetables.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta? Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthy option that adds fiber and additional nutrients.

2. How can I store leftovers? You can store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet.

3. What other sauces can I use? You can experiment with different tomato sauces, such as Alfredo sauce or a fresh pesto, to vary the flavors.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a blonde beer pairs perfectly with this pasta. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a cold lemon tea would be a refreshing choice.

This pasta with sausages and tomato sauce is not just a quick meal, but also one that brings friends and family together around the table. Enjoy every bite and savor the rich and comforting flavors of this delicious recipe!