Sausage and pasta sounds like a rich dish, but using whole wheat orzo and turkey sausage helps lighten it up. This sausage and orzo recipe bursts with summery flavor thanks to the addition of fresh tomato and basil.
1-1/2 cups uncooked whole wheat orzo pasta (about 8 ounces)
1 package (19-1/2 ounces) italian turkey sausage links, casings removed
1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 plum tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup chopped roasted sweet red pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Directions
In a large saucepan, bring water and bouillon to a boil. Stir in orzo; return to a boil. Cook until al dente, 8-10 minutes. Drain orzo, reserving 3/4 cup cooking liquid.
In a large skillet coated with cooking spray, cook and crumble sausage with onion and garlic over medium heat until no longer pink, 6-8 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, roasted pepper, salt, pepper, pepper flakes and orzo. Heat through over medium-low heat; stir in reserved cooking liquid to moisten if desired. Remove from heat; stir in basil and cheese.