Sweet Italian Sausage with Fregula Sarda and Spinach

This dish takes inspiration from Italian home cooking, combining sweet Italian sausages with fregula sarda-a toasted pearl pasta similar to Israeli couscous. The sausages are browned until golden, then simmered with the pasta and fresh spinach for a satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-skillet recipe delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup. Serve it as a hearty main course with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

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Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 lb sweet Italian sausage linksView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 cup fregula sardaView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 cups chicken brothView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

3 cups fresh spinachView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Salt and pepper to tasteView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sweet Italian sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausages from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the fregula sarda and toast, stirring frequently, until lightly golden, about 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Return the sausages to the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer until the fregula is tender and the sausages are cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fregula sarda with Israeli couscous, orzo or even small pasta like ditalini. Adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Fregula sarda is made from wheat, so it contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or rice and adjust liquid accordingly.