Looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also perfect for gatherings and meal prepping? Look no further than our delightful recipe for Spicy Sausage Pasta Salad. This flavorful dish combines the zesty kick of spicy sausage with the savory goodness of pasta in a light, tangy dressing that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a picnic in the park, or simply looking for a satisfying meal to enjoy at home, this Spicy Sausage Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit!
**Spicy Sausage Pasta Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz dried pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casing removed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
**Dressing:**
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and crumble the spicy Italian sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the cooked sausage to the bowl with the pasta. Allow it to cool for a few minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
4. To the bowl, add the diced red and green bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and fresh parsley. Gently toss to combine.
5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
6. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until well coated.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a container with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color.
9. Serve the Spicy Sausage Pasta Salad chilled as a side dish or a standalone meal. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick lunch option during the week.
Enjoy this Spicy Sausage Pasta Salad that’s bursting with flavor and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its combination of hearty sausage, crisp vegetables, and zesty dressing, this dish offers a satisfying and delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a flavorful homemade dish.
