Turkey Sausage and Arugula

This recipe, Turkey Sausage and Arugula Pasta is from Diabetic Connect.  The cheese in this dish is the key to the balance of flavors.  For the biggest impact, make sure to use imported Italian cheese.

Turkey Sausage and Arugula Pasta Recipe

Turkey Sausage and Arugula Pasta

12 oz. whole-wheat short pasta, such as shells or twists

8 oz. hot Italian turkey sausage links, removed from casings

3 cloves garlic, chopped

8 cups arugula or baby spinach

2 cups halved cherry tomatoes

½ cup finely shredded Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, plus more to taste

1 tsp. freshly ground pepper

¼ tsp. salt

1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.  Cook pasta until just tender, 9 to 11 minutes, or according to package directions.

Meanwhile, cook sausage in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until cooked through, about 5 minutes.  Stir in garlic, arugula (or spinach) and tomatoes.  Cook, stirring often, until the greens wilt and the tomatoes begin to break down, about 3 minutes.  Remove from heat; cover and keep warm.

Combine ½ cup cheese, pepper and salt in a large bowl.  Measure out ½ cup of cooking liquid; drain the pasta.  Whisk the cooking liquid and oil into the cheese mixture; add the pasta and toss to combine.  Serve the pasta topped with the sausage mixture and an extra sprinkle of cheese, if desired.

 

(Recipe for Turkey Sausage and Arugula Pasta came from Diabetic Connect, 2014)