Name: Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers and Escarole Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz Ronzoni Smart taste pasta; 1 tsp olive oil; 1 medium onion; 1 red bell pepper; 5 cloves garlic; 1 lb Italian chicken sausage; 1 medium head escarole; ¼ cup Parmigiano Reggiano; ¼ tsp red pepper; salt and fresh pepper

Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty and healthy pasta dish. Packed with robust Italian chicken sausage, crisp peppers, and mildly bitter escarole, it's a meal that's sure to satisfy. The infusion of parmigiano reggiano lends a nutty note while the red pepper provides a subtle kick. This dish is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that will transport your tastebuds straight to an Italian Trattoria.

Photos of Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers and Escarole Pasta Recipe

Escarole might not be a common ingredient in many kitchens. It's a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the endive family and has a slightly bitter taste. It can typically be found in the produce aisle of your local supermarket or at farmer's markets. Italian chicken sausage is a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage, and it carries a distinctive flavor that pairs well with the escarole. You can usually find it in the meat or frozen food section.

Ingredients for Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers, and Escarole Pasta

ronzoni smart taste pasta: A fiber-rich pasta that absorbs the flavors of the dish well.

olive oil: Used for sautéing and adds a rich depth of flavor.

onion: Adds a sweet and slightly pungent flavor.

red bell pepper: Provides a sweet and crunchy texture.

garlic: Gives a flavorful punch and aroma.

italian chicken sausage: The main protein that adds savory and hearty taste.

escarole: A slightly bitter green that adds a unique flavor and texture.

parmigiano reggiano: A hard cheese that adds a nutty flavor.

red pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

salt and fresh pepper: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.

One reader, Caren Oconnor says:

This Italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and comforting. The combination of the sausage, peppers, and escarole creates a delightful harmony. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty and delicious pasta dish.

Caren Oconnor

Techniques Required

How to cook pasta: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

How to cook Italian chicken sausage: In a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian chicken sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until golden brown.

How to wilt escarole: Add the escarole to the skillet, cover, and cook for 2 minutes. Then remove the cover, stir, and cook for an additional 3 minutes or until the escarole is wilted.

How to adjust seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference before serving.

How To Make Pasta with Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers and Escarole

Try something new with this escarole pasta recipe, an Italian-inspired dish that also has chicken sausage & bell peppers for a healthy & savory dinner.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Rinse escarole and tear into bite sized pieces.

1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water.

1. Reserve 1 cup of water before draining.

1. While pasta water boils, heat a large non-stick skillet on medium heat.

1. Add olive oil; when hot add onions, peppers, garlic, salt and pepper.

1. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until soft.

1. Add sausage, breaking up with a wooden spoon and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, until golden.

1. Add escarole, cover and cook 2 minutes; remove the cover, stir and cook about 3 more minutes or until wilted.

1. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

1. Add cooked pasta, red pepper flakes, reserved water and Parmigiano Reggiano, toss well and transfer to a large serving bowl.

1. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

- Calories: 430.03kcal

- Fat: 15.56g

- Saturated Fat: 4.22g

- Trans Fat: 0.11g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.60g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.39g

- Carbohydrates: 49.07g

- Fiber: 3.32g

- Sugar: 3.61g

- Protein: 22.03g

- Cholesterol: 76.79mg

- Sodium: 662.45mg

- Calcium: 155.55mg

- Potassium: 389.94mg

- Iron: 1.92mg

- Vitamin A: 44.41µg

- Vitamin C: 27.88mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers, and Escarole Pasta

When cooking the Italian chicken sausage, make sure to break it up into small, bite-sized pieces with a wooden spoon. This not only ensures that the sausage cooks evenly, but also allows it to better incorporate with the other ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Additionally, when adding the escarole, be sure not to overcook it. Escarole should be just wilted so it retains some of its crunch and bitter flavor, which complements the richness of the sausage and the sweetness of the peppers.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and prep ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Opt for one-pot recipes to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store leftovers for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like a food processor or mandoline for efficient prep work.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid unnecessary steps and save time on decision-making.

Multitask: While one component is cooking, use that time to prepare other elements of the dish.

Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen organized to quickly locate ingredients and utensils while cooking.

Streamlined cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize post-cooking cleanup time.

Pre-sliced and diced: Purchase pre-cut vegetables or pre-sliced meats to cut down on prep time.

Make-ahead meals: Prepare meals in advance and reheat when ready to eat for time-efficient cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers and Escarole Pasta Recipe

Italian chicken sausage - Substitute with turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a lean and flavorful alternative to Italian chicken sausage, providing a similar taste and texture to the dish.
Peppers - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can add a similar crunch and mild sweetness to the dish, complementing the other flavors and textures.
Escarole - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for escarole, providing a slightly different texture and a hearty, earthy flavor to the pasta dish.

Best Way to Present This Flavorful Pasta Dish

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating an aesthetically pleasing arrangement on the plate. Consider using edible flowers or microgreens to add a pop of color and visual appeal.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a variety of textures to the dish to enhance the overall dining experience. Utilize a sprinkling of toasted breadcrumbs or crispy prosciutto to add a delightful crunch.
Highlight the freshness of ingredients: Emphasize the quality of the ingredients by showcasing vibrant and fresh bell peppers and escarole as a visual focal point on the plate.
Balance the elements: Ensure a harmonious balance of flavors and colors on the plate. Incorporate the rich hues of the italian chicken sausage and red bell peppers against the verdant backdrop of the escarole.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the finer details, such as the placement of the pasta and sausage, to create an elegant and refined presentation that reflects the sophistication of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers, and Escarole Pasta

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Large pot: Used for boiling pasta or cooking large batches of food.
Large non-stick skillet: A pan with a non-stick coating, suitable for sautéing and frying ingredients without sticking.
Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with perforations used for draining liquids from cooked pasta or vegetables.
Grater: A tool used for grating cheese or vegetables.
Measuring cup: Used for accurately measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Tongs: Used for gripping and lifting hot food items.
Serving bowl: A bowl used for serving dishes such as pasta or salads.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Pasta

Let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, portion the cooled pasta into individual serving sizes and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label the containers with the date and contents.
When freezing, it's best to leave out the escarole as it may become mushy upon thawing. You can add freshly cooked escarole when reheating the dish.
Frozen italian chicken sausage and pepper pasta will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight. Place the thawed pasta in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
If the reheated pasta seems dry, add a splash of water, chicken broth, or olive oil to help restore its moisture and flavor.
Sprinkle freshly grated parmigiano reggiano and a pinch of red pepper flakes on top of the reheated pasta for a burst of flavor.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Stovetop method: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil or butter. Add the leftover italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta to the skillet and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten it.
Microwave method: Place the leftover italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the pasta to become rubbery.
Oven method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Pasta bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, combine the leftover italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta with some additional tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
Pasta frittata: In a large bowl, whisk together 6-8 eggs and season with salt and black pepper. Add the leftover italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta to the bowl and mix well. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Pour the egg and pasta mixture into the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is set. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.

Is Making This Pasta Dish at Home Economical?

This Italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta recipe offers a great balance of cost-effectiveness and flavor. The use of affordable ingredients such as chicken sausage and pasta makes it budget-friendly. The addition of escarole provides a nutritious and economical element. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15. This dish earns a solid 8/10 for its cost-effectiveness, making it a practical and delicious choice for families looking to enjoy a satisfying Italian-inspired meal without breaking the bank.

Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Here are some positive aspects:

The use of chicken sausage instead of pork sausage reduces the fat content
Escarole is a nutrient-dense leafy green, providing vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber
The inclusion of onions, red bell peppers, and garlic adds flavor and additional nutrients
Using whole grain pasta (Ronzoni Smart Taste) increases the fiber content compared to regular pasta

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved:

The amount of salt and cheese used may contribute to higher sodium levels
The recipe lacks a significant source of healthy fats

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of salt used in cooking and let individuals add salt to taste
Use a smaller amount of Parmigiano Reggiano or replace it with a lower-sodium cheese alternative
Include a source of healthy fats, such as sliced avocado or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving
Increase the vegetable content by adding more escarole, bell peppers, or other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms
Experiment with different whole grain pasta options, such as quinoa or lentil pasta, for added protein and fiber
Serve with a side salad to increase the overall vegetable intake of the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Italian Pasta Dish

This Italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of Italian chicken sausage adds a savory depth, while the sweetness of the red bell pepper and the slight bitterness of the escarole create a well-balanced dish. The addition of garlic and red pepper flakes provides a nice kick of flavor, and the parmigiano reggiano adds a rich, nutty finish. Overall, this recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please the palate.

Enhance Your Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers and Escarole Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Create a delicious garlic bread with a twist by adding roasted garlic and parmesan cheese for an extra kick of flavor.

Grilled Asparagus: Grill some fresh asparagus and drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a simple and elegant side dish.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roast Brussels sprouts with crispy pancetta and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory side dish that will complement the flavors of the pasta dish.

Fruit Salad: Prepare a refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits and a honey-lime dressing for a light and refreshing accompaniment to the hearty pasta dish.

Similar Recipes to Try

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy and flavorful risotto is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. The combination of mushrooms, arborio rice, and parmesan cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This sweet and savory glazed salmon is a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. The honey and garlic marinade adds a delicious flavor to the tender and flaky salmon fillets.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This refreshing and healthy dessert is made with ripe mangoes, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds. It's a great make-ahead option for a light and satisfying sweet treat.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers, and Escarole Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly. These stuffed mushrooms are sure to impress your guests with their rich and flavorful filling.

Bruschetta: Serve up a classic Italian appetizer by topping slices of toasted baguette with a mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors of the bruschetta will delight your guests and set the stage for a delicious meal to come.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Tart: Create a beautiful and delicious berry tart, filled with a mixture of fresh berries and a sweet glaze. The combination of flaky crust and juicy berries makes for a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Italian Chicken Sausage, Peppers and Escarole Pasta Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious and wholesome choice for a satisfying meal. The combination of Italian chicken sausage, peppers, and escarole creates a flavorful and nutritious dish. The use of Ronzoni Smart Taste pasta adds a healthy twist, while the addition of Parmigiano Reggiano brings a rich and savory taste. The step-by-step instructions ensure a seamless cooking experience, and the incorporation of garlic and red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick. Trust in the quality and balance of ingredients to create a delightful dining experience.

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FAQ:

What type of pasta can I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but I recommend using a short pasta like penne or fusilli to hold the sauce and ingredients well.

Can I use regular pork sausage instead of chicken sausage?

Yes, you can absolutely use regular pork sausage if you prefer. It will still be delicious!

Is there a substitute for escarole if I can't find it?

If you can't find escarole, you can substitute it with other leafy greens such as kale, Swiss chard, or spinach.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best served immediately, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when you're ready to eat. Just make sure to reheat it gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat to the dish. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.