Make It Monday | Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach
Welcome to Make-It-Monday: Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach
Today, we’re diving into a simple, yet delicious recipe that is a crowd-pleaser for the whole family. We’re talking about the make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach. This recipe is not only easy-to-make but also packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach, olive oil, and lemon zest. Let’s get started!
Why Choose Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach?
When you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, tasty, and nutritious, rigatoni with sausage and spinach is a winning choice. The hearty rigatoni pasta pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of the sausage, while the fresh spinach adds a burst of vibrant color and nutrients. The touch of lemon zest and olive oil ties everything together, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients Needed
To kick off our make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup of fresh spinach or half of a frozen brick
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of finely grated lemon zest
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach
Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your own make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach dish.
Step 1: Begin by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions. When the pasta is two minutes away from being fully cooked, add in your spinach. Continue cooking until the pasta is done then drain.
Step 2: While your pasta is cooking, whisk together your oil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This will be your flavor-packed dressing.
Step 3: Cook your sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until it starts to curl and turns a nice golden brown. Once done, remove it from the heat.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine your pasta, cooked sausage, and the oil mixture. Mix everything together until well combined. Feel free to sprinkle some cheese on top if you wish!
FAQs about Making Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach
Here are some frequently asked questions about our make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach.
Can I substitute the spinach for another leafy green?
Yes, you can! If you’re not a fan of spinach, feel free to substitute it with kale, chard, or even broccoli.
What type of sausage should I use?
You can use any type of sausage you prefer. Italian sausage is a popular choice for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, our make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a nutritious meal for your kiddos or just someone who loves good food, this recipe is a must-try.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|————-|———–|
| Fresh Spinach or Frozen Brick | 1 cup or half a brick |
| Extra-Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon Zest | 1 tbs |
| Pasta | As per package instructions |
| Garlic | To taste |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste |
| Sausage | As per preference |
| Cheese | If desired |
| Steps | Instructions |
|——-|————–|
| Step 1 | In a large pot of boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add in your spinach and cook until pasta is done. Drain. |
| Step 2 | Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together oil, garlic, lemon zest, salt & pepper (to taste). |
| Step 3 | Add sausage to skillet and cook over medium high, until edges start to curl and is a nice golden brown. |
| Step 4 | Remove from heat, place pasta into a large bowl, mix in sausage, pour in oil mixture and mix well. Sprinkle with cheese if desired. |
Digging Deeper: Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach
There’s more to the make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach recipe than meets the eye. This dish is not just a simple pasta recipe; it’s a culinary journey to Italy, a celebration of simple ingredients, and a testament to the fact that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
The Italian Connection
Our make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach recipe draws its roots from Italy, a country renowned for its pasta dishes. The combination of rigatoni and sausage is a classic Italian pairing, loved for its hearty and satisfying flavors. The addition of spinach not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a touch of freshness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the sausage.
The Art of Simplicity
What makes the make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach recipe truly special is its simplicity. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated cooking techniques to create something delicious. This dish is all about letting the ingredients shine, with each one contributing its unique flavor to create a beautifully balanced dish.
Healthy & Nutritious
But the make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach recipe isn’t just about great taste; it’s also packed with nutrition. Spinach is a superfood, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. The olive oil provides healthy fats, while the lemon zest adds a dose of vitamin C. The sausage adds protein, making this a well-rounded meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
How to Customize Your Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach
The beauty of the make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach recipe is its versatility. It’s a dish that’s open to interpretation, allowing you to put your own spin on it.
Playing with Pasta
While rigatoni is the pasta of choice for this recipe, you can easily substitute it with any other type of pasta. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle would all work well. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary, so be sure to follow the package instructions.
Experimenting with Flavors
The make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach recipe is a great base for experimentation. Want to add some heat? Throw in some chili flakes. Looking for more depth? Add a splash of white wine. Craving some creaminess? Stir in a spoonful of ricotta. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs about Making Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the sausage with a plant-based alternative or adding more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and sausage ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just heat up the pasta and sausage, add the spinach and dressing, and serve.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – the make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach recipe in all its glory. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and customizable to your tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this is one recipe you’ll want to add to your repertoire. Buon appetito!
Additional FAQs about Making Rigatoni with Sausage & Spinach
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you certainly can! Prepare the recipe as directed, then allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
What type of pasta can I use instead of rigatoni?
If you don’t have rigatoni on hand, other types of pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work just as well in this recipe. Choose a pasta type that can hold the sausage and spinach well.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! This make-it-Monday-rigatoni-with-sausage-spinach recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
What can I use instead of sausage?
If you don’t eat meat or simply prefer a different protein, you can substitute the sausage with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh spinach or half of a frozen brick | 1 cup |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Finely grated lemon zest | 1 tablespoon |
Step-by-Step Instruction Table
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Boil the pasta and add spinach two minutes before the pasta is fully cooked. Drain. |
| Step 2 | Whisk together oil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. |
| Step 3 | Cook the sausage until it starts to curl and turns golden brown. Remove from heat. |
| Step 4 | In a large bowl, combine pasta, cooked sausage, and oil mixture. Mix well. Sprinkle cheese on top if desired. |
