Pasta with tomato sauce and smoked sausage is not only a simple but also very nutritious dish, popular in many countries around the world. The perfect combination of these ingredients brings a unique flavor, both rich and refreshing, suitable for cozy family meals or light parties with friends. This article will help you better understand the nutritional value, ingredients, cooking methods, and tips to create the perfect dish.
Nutritional value:
- Smoked sausage is a source of high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue and provide energy for the body. Protein also helps you feel full longer, supporting weight loss and weight maintenance. In addition, sausages also contain B vitamins, especially B12, which is important for the nervous system and blood cell formation.
- Pasta is a major source of carbohydrates, providing long-term energy and helping maintain heart health. Complex carbohydrates in pasta help release energy slowly, without causing a sudden increase in blood sugar. In addition, pasta also contains fiber to help improve digestion and prevent constipation.
- Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system and protect the body from free radicals. Tomatoes also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. In addition, vitamin A in tomatoes helps improve vision and maintain healthy skin.
Ingredient:
- 200g pasta (spaghetti, fusilli, or penne)
- 200g smoked sausage, thinly sliced
- 400g ripe tomatoes, chopped or 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper just enough
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Making:
Step 1: Boil pasta according to instructions on the package until tender. Then remove them, drain.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, saute until onion is soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Add smoked sausage to the pan, stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the sausage is cooked and golden brown.
Step 4: Add dried tomatoes and basil to the pan, season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Mix the pasta into the pan with the sauce, stir well until the pasta absorbs the sauce.
Step 6: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and enjoy.
Frequently asked Questions:
1. Can I use any other pasta besides spaghetti?
- You can use any type of pasta you like, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Each type of pasta will bring a different feeling but they are all delicious when combined with tomato sauce and smoked sausage.
2. Can I replace the smoked sausage with any other meat?
- You can replace the smoked sausage with regular sausage, chicken, pork, or even mushrooms if you want to make it vegetarian. Each type of ingredient will bring a unique flavor to the dish.
3. Can I prepare in advance?
- You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When needed, just reheat and mix with boiled pasta.
Tips:
- Al dente pasta: To ensure the pasta doesn’t become mushy, boil it until just al dente (al dente). Pasta al dente has a moderate chewiness and when mixed with the sauce, it absorbs the flavor evenly.
- Additional vegetables: You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the nutrition and flavor of the dish. Stir-fry the vegetables before adding the sausage so they cook evenly.
- Pasta broth: Save some pasta broth to use when you need to thin the sauce. The broth contains starch from the pasta, which helps the sauce stick better.
- Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the dish right off the stove to melt the cheese and create a delicious topping.
Spices: If you like spicy food, add some chili powder or chopped fresh chili to the sauce.
Pasta with tomato sauce and smoked sausage is an easy, delicious and nutritious dish. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple recipes, you can quickly prepare a cozy and nutritious meal for your family or friends. Try this recipe now and enjoy the wonderful taste of the dish. Not simply a meal, this is also an opportunity for you to be creative and discover new flavors, bringing joy and satisfaction to yourself and your loved ones.