Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta (Sausage al Lemone)

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, you’ve stumbled upon a real gem: Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta (Sausage al Lemone)! This dish is a delightful blend of savory sausage and zesty lemon that dances on your taste buds. It’s one of my favorites because it’s not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor that the whole family will love.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe shines in every setting. Its comforting nature makes it perfect for those evenings when you just want something warm and satisfying. Let’s dive into why this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In less than 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal on the table, making it ideal for those bustling evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of sausage and creamy sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Flavorful: The bright notes of lemon elevate the dish, creating a delightful balance with the rich sausage.
• Versatile: This recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your pantry staples or dietary preferences.
• Comforting: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of pasta to make you feel at home after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta is made from simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each component plays its part in creating a flavorful dish that feels both comforting and refreshing.

• 250g Dry Paccheri pasta (or your favourite pasta shape)
• 400g sausages or sausage meat
• 2 shallots or 1 small brown onion
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 large lemon
• 1-2 tsp chilli flakes
• 2 cloves garlic
• 300 ml pasta water
• 70 g Parmesan
• 60 ml Crème fraîche or double cream
• 15 g parsley
• Stainless steel frying pan
• Large pasta pot

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage instead of traditional pork sausages for a leaner option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta shape: While paccheri is delightful, any pasta shape you love will work beautifully!
• Make it spicier: If you’re feeling adventurous, increase the amount of chilli flakes for an extra kick!

How to Make Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta (Sausage al Lemone)

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by placing a large stainless or carbon steel sauté pan over high heat. When water flicked onto the surface skitters around in droplets, it’s ready! Add a drizzle of cooking oil and remove the sausages from their skins. Crumble them into the pan. Searing them nicely will build incredible flavor in our sauce over about 10-12 minutes—don’t rush this step!

Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients

While your sausage cooks away, take this time to gather everything else. Dice up shallots or onion finely, peel and slice garlic, and chop parsley. Bring a pot of water to boil for the pasta—using less water than directed will give us that lovely starchy water we need later.

Step 3: Add Shallots and Fennel Seeds

Once your sausage has browned beautifully, reduce the heat slightly. Toss in shallots along with fennel seeds, cooking until they soften—around 4-5 minutes. This adds sweetness to our sauce!

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

Now it’s time to add your favorite pasta into that boiling water! Cook according to package instructions until very al dente; remember—it will finish cooking in our sauce.

Step 5: Zest and Squeeze

Zest that bright lemon straight into the pan with sausage! Sprinkle in chilli flakes and sliced garlic as well. Stir until fragrant—just about one minute—and then squeeze in fresh lemon juice. This zesty addition brings everything together beautifully!

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Drain your pasta (remember to save some starchy water!) Once drained, add it directly into the sausage pan along with approximately 200ml of reserved pasta water, crème fraîche, and Parmesan cheese. Keeping the heat low allows everything to melt together into a creamy coating over each piece of pasta.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste your creation! Add more lemon juice if desired or season further as needed. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving this delightful dish!

And there you have it—your very own Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta (Sausage al Lemone) ready to impress. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta (Sausage al Lemone)

Cooking this delightful dish is all about creating a balance of flavors and textures, so here are some pro tips to ensure your pasta turns out perfectly every time!

• Use high-quality sausages: Choosing good quality sausages will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish, bringing in more robust and savory notes that complement the lemon beautifully.
• Don’t skip the pasta water: The starchy pasta water is key to achieving that creamy sauce consistency. It helps bind everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated without being too heavy.
• Adjust the lemon to taste: Everyone’s palate is different. Start with a little lemon juice and zest, then add more based on your preference for brightness. This way, you can customize the dish just for you!
• Cook pasta al dente: Undercook your pasta slightly since it will continue cooking in the sauce. This prevents it from becoming mushy and ensures a perfect bite.
• Fresh herbs are a must: Always go for fresh parsley instead of dried. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and color that elevates the dish, making it visually appealing and delicious!

How to Serve Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta (Sausage al Lemone)

Presenting your Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dish stand out on the table.

Garnishes

• Freshly grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds richness and a beautiful finish to your pasta.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to brighten their portions even further if they desire!
• Extra chopped parsley: A handful of extra parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness with each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with pasta, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the noodles.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette cleanses the palate and balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients while providing an earthy contrast to the bright flavors of the dish.
• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears dressed lightly with olive oil and salt make for an elegant side that enhances both flavor and presentation.

Enjoy crafting your Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta experience with these serving suggestions! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta is not only a delightful dish but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy a delicious meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container.
• Place in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If the pasta thickens, you can add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen it up.

Freezing

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little reserved pasta water or broth to help revive the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I use other types of sausage for Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta (Sausage al Lemone)?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based alternatives. Each will bring its own unique flavor while complementing the lemon beautifully.

How do I achieve the perfect sauce consistency for Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta (Sausage al Lemone)?

The key is to reserve enough starchy pasta water when draining your pasta. Gradually add it back into the pan as you mix in the crème fraîche and Parmesan cheese, adjusting until you achieve that creamy, glossy coating on your pasta.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would make a great addition. Just sauté them along with the shallots to incorporate more flavor and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Saucy Sausage and Lemon Pasta! It’s a comforting dish that brings together vibrant flavors with ease—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy every bite as it warms your heart and fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Happy cooking!