Introduction
Sarah Millican’s Tuscan Sausage Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that showcases the comforting and rich flavors of Italian cuisine. This hearty pasta recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or when entertaining friends. It combines succulent sausage with fresh tomatoes, herbs, and a hint of heat, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that is easy to prepare.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 400g pasta (your choice, such as spaghetti or penne)
– 300g Italian sausage (removed from the casing)
– 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
– 1 onion (finely chopped)
– 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– A pinch of chili flakes
– Fresh basil leaves (to garnish)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
Prep Time
The preparation time for Sarah Millican’s Tuscan Sausage Tomato Pasta is approximately 10 minutes. This quick prep ensures that you can enjoy the cooking process without feeling rushed.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this recipe is around 20 minutes. Therefore, the total time needed from prep to finishing touches is about 30 minutes. This recipe yields servings for four people, making it ideal for a family dinner or for sharing with friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients: sausages, onion, garlic, canned tomatoes, tomato puree, and any additional herbs or spices you wish to use.
Step 2: Cook the Sausages
In a large pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until they are browned all over. This should take about 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes
Pour in the canned tomatoes and tomato puree. Stir well to combine with the sautéed onions and garlic.
Step 5: Incorporate Sausages
Slice the cooked sausages and add them back into the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, cook your pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot. Drain the pasta once it’s al dente.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready and the pasta is drained, combine them in the large pan. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
Step 8: Final Touches
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add salt, pepper, or fresh herbs according to your preference.
Notes
Note 1: Choose Your Sausages
Feel free to use any type of sausages you prefer, whether it’s pork, chicken, or vegetarian options.
Note 2: Pasta Variations
You can substitute the pasta for gluten-free options or different types such as penne or fusilli.
Note 3: Storage Instructions
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Note 5: Spice Level
Feel free to add chili flakes or adjust the seasoning to increase the spice level according to your taste preference.
Cook techniques
Stir-frying sausage
Cooking the sausage quickly over high heat helps to enhance its flavor and creates a great texture.
Sautéing onions and garlic
Sautéing these ingredients releases their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
Deglazing the pan
Adding liquid after sautéing helps to lift the browned bits from the bottom of the pan, enriching the sauce.
Simmering the sauce
Allowing the sauce to simmer helps to combine the flavors and thickens the mixture.
Cooking pasta al dente
Cooking pasta until it’s just firm helps it maintain its texture and prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
Combining pasta and sauce
Tossing the pasta with the sauce ensures that every strand is coated evenly for maximum flavor.
FAQ
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Italian sausage is ideal due to its rich flavors, but you can use other types based on your preference.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used; just make sure to adjust cooking time for their moisture content.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Substituting sausage with your favorite vegetable or plant-based protein can create a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I serve with this pasta?
You can serve it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
Conclusion
The Tuscan sausage and tomato pasta recipe offers a comforting blend of flavors that are sure to delight any pasta lover. Its simplicity and heartiness make it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. With a few fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can easily become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta
A fiery tomato-based sauce with garlic and chili that pairs beautifully with penne or spaghetti for a quick, zesty meal.
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
Combining rich mushroom flavors with fresh spinach in a creamy sauce creates a deliciously decadent dish.
Classic Pesto Pasta
Fresh basil, pine nuts, and parmesan blended into a vibrant pesto sauce that elevates any pasta, perfect for warmer months.
Seafood Linguine
A blend of prawns, mussels, and calamari, tossed in a light garlic and tomato sauce, brings the taste of the sea to your plate.
Vegetable Lasagna
Layers of pasta, seasonal vegetables, and creamy béchamel sauce create a hearty, comforting dish that’s great for feeding a crowd.
Chicken Alfredo
Tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce served over fettuccine is a classic comfort food favorite.
Ratatouille Pasta
A medley of grilled vegetables and a light tomato sauce makes a colorful and flavorful addition to any pasta dish.
Carbonara with Peas
A traditional carbonara with the sweetness of peas added in creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.