Italian Sausage Orzo
A delightful and hearty dish that combines Italian turkey sausage with orzo pasta, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cooking Base
- 8 cups water For cooking the orzo.
- 3 teaspoons reduced-sodium chicken bouillon granules Enhances flavor.
- 1.5 cups uncooked whole wheat orzo pasta (about 8 ounces) Can substitute for other types of pasta.
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 package Italian turkey sausage links, casings removed (19-1/2 ounces) Turkey sausage makes the dish leaner.
- 0.5 cup chopped sweet onion Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For flavor.
- 3 plum tomatoes chopped Freshness with a savory taste.
- 0.5 cup chopped roasted sweet red pepper Adds a smoky flavor.
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes For heat.
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil For freshness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances flavor and creaminess.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large saucepan, bring the water and bouillon to a boil.
- Stir in the orzo and return to boiling. Cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the orzo, reserving 3/4 cup of the cooking liquid.
Cooking
- In a large skillet coated with cooking spray, cook and crumble the turkey sausage, along with the chopped onion and minced garlic, over medium heat until the beef sausage is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Next, add the chopped tomatoes, roasted pepper, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Stir in the cooked orzo and mix well. Heat everything through over medium-low heat.
- If the mixture seems dry, incorporate some of the reserved cooking liquid for added moisture.
Finishing Touches
- Remove from heat and mix in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors.
Notes
Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta or other sautéed vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly.