Pasta with Turkey Sausage and Marinara Sauce with Side Salad
1273 kcal · 37 g protein · 10 minutes · 2 servings
This hearty and nutritious meal features whole wheat pasta tossed with flavorful turkey sausage and rich marinara sauce, paired with a fresh mixed greens salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar. It's a balanced dish perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
1273 kcal
37 g protein
10 minutes
Ingredients
- Whole wheat pasta 2 cups cooked
- Turkey sausage 5 oz
- Marinara sauce 1 cup
- Mixed salad greens 2 cups
- Olive oil and vinegar dressing 1 tbsp
Method
-
Cook the whole wheat pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
Tip: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. -
Prepare the turkey sausage.
While the pasta cooks, slice the turkey sausage into bite-sized pieces. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
Tip: Use a spatula to break up any large chunks for even cooking. -
Heat the marinara sauce.
Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the cooked turkey sausage. Stir well to combine and let it simmer gently over low heat for 3-4 minutes to warm through and blend flavors.
Tip: Cover the pan loosely to prevent splattering. -
Combine pasta with sauce and sausage.
Add the cooked whole wheat pasta to the skillet with the turkey sausage and marinara sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it. -
Prepare the side salad.
In a large bowl, place the mixed salad greens. Drizzle the olive oil and vinegar dressing over the greens and toss gently to coat all leaves evenly.
Tip: Add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp. -
Serve the meal.
Divide the pasta with turkey sausage and marinara sauce between two plates. Serve alongside the dressed mixed greens salad for a complete meal.
Tip: Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or chopped herbs if desired.
Pro tips
- Use a large pot for boiling pasta to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed.