Rotini Pasta Recipe With Sausage, Ricotta And Green Beans

Instructions

• Cook the pasta according to package directions.
• While the pasta is cooking, cut the sausage into 1/2-inch pieces and chop the mushrooms.
• Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat (you might need to use two frying pans to fit everything).
• Add the sausage, mushrooms and green beans to the frying pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes, or until everything is cooked through.
• Add minced garlic, tomatoes, salt and pepper to the frying pan and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes.
• Drain cooked pasta and return to the pot. Add ricotta to the pasta and mix thoroughly.
• Add the sausage mixture to the pasta and mix until combined.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this pasta with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan or fresh basil for an extra layer of flavor and presentation.
• Pair it with a side salad, like a simple mixed greens salad like lettuce and tomato, or green salad with cauliflower, to add a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.
• Garlic bread or breadsticks are a fantastic addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• For a balanced meal, consider adding a light, fruity dessert, such as a mixed berry sorbet or fresh blueberries, to cleanse the palate.

Tips For Success

• Cook Pasta to Al Dente: To prevent the pasta from becoming too soft, cook it to an al dente texture according to package instructions. It will soften a bit more when mixed with the sauce, so keeping it slightly firm will give the best results.
• Use Fresh Garlic for Best Flavor: Freshly minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that pre-minced varieties can’t match. Be sure to add it towards the end of cooking to avoid burning and to preserve its robust taste.
• Choose Quality Sausage: The sausage is a primary flavor in this dish, so select a quality sausage, like Italian sausage, for the best taste. Adjust the heat level to your preference by choosing spicy or mild varieties.
• Add Ricotta to Hot Pasta: When adding ricotta, make sure the pasta is still hot. This helps the ricotta mix smoothly, coating the rotini evenly for a creamy finish.
• Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to include more of your favorite veggies.
• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing flavors. Add them in stages as you cook and taste the sauce before mixing it with the pasta to ensure everything is well-seasoned.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Pasta Shapes: While rotini holds the sauce well, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Each shape offers a unique texture that pairs well with the sausage and ricotta.
• Alternative Meats: If sausage isn’t your preference, ground beef, turkey, or even a plant-based sausage substitute works well in this recipe. These options maintain the heartiness of the dish while catering to dietary preferences.
• Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage. You can adjust the amount to fit your spice tolerance.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, use crumbled tofu or a plant-based sausage instead of meat. Add a bit of smoked paprika to mimic the savory flavor sausage typically adds.
• Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutrition by adding extra vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. These can be added along with the green beans to give the dish even more color and texture.
• Try a Different Cheese: If you’re out of ricotta or want a different flavor, try cottage cheese or mascarpone as a substitute. Both bring creaminess to the pasta while giving a slightly different taste.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish keeps well, and the flavors deepen as it sits, making it perfect for next-day meals.
• Reheating: To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. If the pasta seems a bit dry, add a tablespoon of water or a drizzle of olive oil to bring back some moisture.
• Freezing: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the sauce, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or fusilli. Each pasta type brings its unique texture to the dish, so feel free to use what you have on hand.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this pasta dish is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days and reheats nicely, making it a convenient option for ready-to-go meals throughout the week.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! You can substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu. Adding a bit of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to the tofu will help replicate the savory flavor of sausage.

What can I add to make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, use hot Italian sausage or sprinkle in red pepper flakes to taste. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference, and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the dish.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by replacing ricotta with a dairy-free cheese alternative, such as a cashew-based ricotta or vegan cream cheese. This will still give you that creamy texture without the dairy.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this pasta freezes well! Just place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Enjoy this yummy pasta dish!  It also reheats very well, so if you have leftovers, they’ll be great for next day’s dinner!  For more pasta recipes, check out easy pasta shells casserole, pasta recipe with fresh tomatoes and homemade alfredo sauce pasta recipe.