Pasta Primavera with Chicken Sausage

~ serves 5-6

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta of choice, I like to use a lentil rotini or penne

  • 3 TBSPs extra virgin olive oil, divided

  • 1/2 red onion, diced (or 2 shallots)

  • 5 garlic cloves, minced (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)

  • 1 bell pepper, diced

  • 1 yellow summer squash or zucchini, diced

  • 4-5 large chicken sausage links (any flavor), thinly sliced

  • 1, 15 oz can diced tomatoes

  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 2 handfuls spinach, chopped (optional)

  • salt/pepper to taste

  • shredded parmesan for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to box instructions.

  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 TBSP olive oil and the onion and sauté until fragrant.

  3. Add the garlic and bell peppers and sauté for 2-3 minutes.

  4. Add the squash or zucchini and sliced chicken sausage. Sauté for 3 minutes.

  5. Add the entire can of tomatoes and the seasonings. Simmer for a few minutes, then reduce heat to low.

  6. Once pasta is fully cooked, drain and add to the skillet.

  7. Add the spinach and an additional 2 TBSP olive oil. Season with desired salt/pepper. Toss everything together just until the spinach wilts.

  8. Remove from heat and top with parmesan cheese if desired.