If you’re looking for a delightful and easy-to-make pasta dish that combines the fresh flavors of basil pesto with the hearty taste of chicken sausage, then this recipe is for you.
Pesto Orecchiette with Chicken Sausage is a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.
Why Orecchiette
Orecchiette originates from the Apulia region of Southern Italy. The name “orecchiette” comes from the Italian word “orecchio,” which means “ear,” as the pasta is shaped like small ears.
This distinctive shape is achieved by pressing down on small pieces of dough with a thumb or a knife, creating a concave shape.
This unique ear-like shape, is perfect for holding onto sauces, making each bite packed with flavor.
This pasta’s texture complements the creamy pesto and savory chicken sausage, creating a harmonious blend of taste and satisfaction.
Pesto Orecchiette with Chicken Sausage is a simple yet flavorful dish that will surely become a favorite in your household.
With its rich basil pesto sauce, juicy chicken sausage, and fresh vegetables, this pasta dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Traditionally, orecchiette is a staple in many Italian dishes due to its ability to pair well with a variety of flavors. Like this dish for example, Orecchiette with Chorizo and Chickpeas.
Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Italy right at your home.
Pesto Orecchiette with Chicken Sausage
12 ounces Orecchiette pasta
½ pound green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup frozen peas
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 ounces Italian style chicken sausage links, fully cooked, remove casing and slice thinly diagonally
1/3 cup pesto sauce – Recipe Here
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cook pasta according to the package directions, adding the green beans and peas during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Reserve 1 cup of the cooking water; drain pasta and vegetables (note do not rinse) and return them to the pot.
While pasta is cooking, heat the oil in a large skillet over med-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until browned, 6 to 8 minutes.
Add the sausage, pesto and cheese to the pasta and vegetables and mix to combine. Of the reserved water add a little if pasta mixture is dry; continue to do so until the desired texture.
Plate and serve with slices of Toasted Sourdough Garlic Cheese Bread.
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