Linguine with Sausage and Smashed Peas

Well as usual, I needed something to make for dinner so I turned to the Food Network for some inspiration. I stumbled upon a Giada recipe that looked promising. I made a few minor tweaks and it was very tasty!

Linguine with Sausage and Smashed Peas

1lb linguine
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1lb turkey sausage
1lb frozen peas, thawed
1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
1 bunch fresh basil chopped
1 teaspoon salt
Parmesan cheese

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes if dry or according to package directions if fresh. Drain pasta reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.

2. Meanwhile, in a large, heavy skillet heat the olive oil and garlic over medium-high heat and add the sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break up the sausage into bite-sized bits. When the sausage has browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside. 

3. Add the peas to the pan and, using the back of the wooden spoon, smash the peas. Turn off the heat. 

4. Add the ricotta cheese along with the cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding the pasta cooking water in 1/4 cup additions, if needed, to make the pasta moist. Return the sausage to the pan. Add the basil and salt. Toss gently to coat, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately.

Original Recipe: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/tagliatelle-with-smashed-peas-sausage-and-ricotta-cheese-recipe/index.html


AEM