Pasta is a versatile and beloved dish that can be easily transformed with different ingredients and flavors. Today, I want to share with you a delightful recipe that combines the heartiness of Italian sausage with the fresh taste of cherry tomatoes and spinach. This Pasta Polana recipe is simple to make and perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. Let’s get started!
**Pasta Polana**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of penne pasta
– 1 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cups of fresh spinach
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water generously for added flavor. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Brown the sausage until no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes, stirring everything together. Let the tomatoes cook down and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Once the spinach is wilted, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the sausage and vegetables.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and gently mix it in. The cheese will melt slightly and add a delicious creaminess to the dish.
8. Serve the Pasta Polana hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal with your loved ones!
This Pasta Polana recipe is a wonderful way to elevate your pasta game with a perfect balance of savory sausage, sweet cherry tomatoes, and nutritious spinach. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner that feels special or for impressing guests with minimal effort. The dish is bursting with flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Try it out soon and savor the comforting goodness of this delightful recipe!
