Recipe: Spicy Kielbasa Pasta

There is very little prep work when using a smoked sausage and simple vegetables, and most ingredients are pantry staples! Also, it makes great lunch leftovers if you don't need to feed 4-6 people. For about 25-30 minutes including preparation time

Spicy Kielbasa Pasta

makes 4-6 servings depending on your appetite!
1 package low fat/turkey kielbasa or other smoked sausage.

4-6 servings pasta (I used spinach fettuncini here)

1/2 bunch of broccoli rabe

1 package pre-sliced cremini/baby bella mushrooms (less prep time!)
2 medium sized shallots
1 1/4-1/2 cups pasta sauce (homemade or store bought)
4 medium cloves of garlic
1/2 tablespoon crushed red pepper (less or more depending on how spicy you like it)
1 teaspoon dried basil or fresh if you have it on hand
dash of black pepper
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup parmesan cheese

Prep: Cut kielbasa into approximately 1/4-1/2 inch pieces on the bias. Trim ends off of broccoli rabe. Slice mushrooms if you bought whole ones instead of pre-sliced.

Cooking: While boiling water for pasta, heat a large pan to medium high and add kielbasa and shallots. Cook until they begin to brown. Add pasta to boiling water. Add broccoli rabe and mushrooms to saute pan and cook until tender. I always use the mushrooms, but mix up the other vegetable depending on availability and mood, so substitute what you prefer. In the past I've used asparagus, spinach, arugula and zucchini instead of the broccolie rabe. Add garlic, then pasta sauce and simmer with olive oil, red pepper, basil, and black pepper for a few minutes. Finally add parmesan cheese while cooking or simply shave it on top once you plate the dish. Serve over pasta. And if you're anything like me, have a glass of inexpensive red wine from Trader Joe's with your meal!