Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ onion, diced
• Salt to taste
• 8 ounces spicy Italian sausages, casings removed
• 3 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or more, as needed)
• 1 ¼ cups orecchiette pasta (or more to taste)
• ½ cup roughly chopped arugula (or to taste)
• ¼ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (or to taste)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Sausage:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and a pinch of salt and sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Once the onion is softened, add the spicy Italian sausages to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.

2. Add the Broth:

Once the sausage is fully cooked, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This step will help create the sauce for the pasta while infusing the flavors of the sausage into the broth. Let the broth simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Cook the Pasta:

While the sausage and broth are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Once the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. This starchy water will help the sauce adhere to the pasta and give the dish a silky texture.

4. Combine the Pasta with the Sausage Mixture:

Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the sausage and broth. Stir well to combine the pasta with the sausage mixture. If the sauce seems a bit dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to create a more cohesive, sauce-like consistency. Let the pasta and sausage simmer together for a couple of minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of the broth and sausage.

5. Add the Arugula:

Once the pasta is coated with the sausage sauce, add the roughly chopped arugula. Stir the arugula into the pasta until it wilts down and becomes tender. The arugula adds a fresh, peppery contrast to the richness of the sausage and broth, making it a perfect complement.

6. Serve and Garnish:

Remove the skillet from the heat. Divide the pasta among serving plates and top with a generous sprinkle of finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. You can also drizzle a bit of extra olive oil over the top for added richness, if desired. Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and enjoy with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4-6 servings

Calories per Serving: Approximately 500-600 kcal (depending on portion size)

Why This Recipe is Timeless:

Pasta is the foundation of Italian cuisine, and this Spicy Italian Sausage & Orecchiette Pasta with Arugula is a prime example of why pasta dishes are so beloved around the world. The combination of spicy sausage, earthy arugula, and the chewy texture of orecchiette creates a satisfying and flavorful dish that is both comforting and exciting.

What makes this recipe truly timeless is its ability to evoke warmth and nostalgia while also offering a fresh twist. The spicy Italian sausage brings a depth of flavor, and when paired with the slight bitterness of arugula and the creamy richness of Parmigiano-Reggiano, the dish is elevated into something truly special. The broth-based sauce ensures the pasta remains light yet flavorful, making it the perfect choice for any season. Whether enjoyed in the summer with a crisp glass of white wine or during the colder months when you crave a hearty meal, this dish always fits the bill.

Moreover, this recipe has a long history in Italian cooking. Orecchiette, which means “little ears” in Italian, is a traditional pasta shape from the Puglia region in southern Italy. It’s typically paired with rich, meaty sauces and often complemented by bitter greens like arugula or broccoli rabe. The inclusion of spicy sausage and fresh greens highlights the regional Italian approach of balancing rich, hearty ingredients with fresh, slightly bitter flavors.

The versatility of this dish also makes it timeless. You can adjust the spice level by choosing a milder sausage or experimenting with different greens, making it easy to customize based on your tastes or what you have on hand. Whether you enjoy it as a simple weeknight dinner or as a special meal for guests, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Nutritional Facts:

• Calories per Serving: 500-600 kcal
• Total Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Iron: 3 mg
• Calcium: 200 mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While orecchiette is traditional, you can use other short pasta shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While pasta is best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare the sausage and broth mixture ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the mixture, cook the pasta, and combine them as directed.

Q: Can I make this dish without arugula?
A: Yes! If you’re not a fan of arugula or don’t have it on hand, you can substitute it with spinach, kale, or even broccoli rabe for a similar texture and flavor profile.

Tips for Making:

• Spice Control: Adjust the heat of the sausage by choosing a mild or spicy version of Italian sausage based on your preference. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the spice level if desired.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the dish for more texture and flavor.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese to the broth mixture before combining with the pasta.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to bring the dish back to life.
• Freezing: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sausage and broth mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and add fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion:

This Spicy Italian Sausage & Orecchiette Pasta with Arugula is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a timeless addition to any pasta lover’s recipe collection. Whether you’re craving something hearty and savory or simply looking for a dish that will impress your guests, this recipe has everything you need. The spicy sausage, rich broth, and peppery arugula come together to create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention, can transform into something truly special. Enjoy this dish with a glass of wine, a side of crusty bread, and the company of friends or family. The next time you find yourself searching for a meal that’s both comforting and exciting, this recipe will be your go-to for a fulfilling, flavorful meal.