Delicious Trader Joe’s Pasta Recipe to Elevate Your Dinner Game
Introduction
Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes and looking for something new and exciting? Look no further than Trader Joe’s for inspiration. With a few simple ingredients from this beloved grocery store, you can create a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that will elevate your dinner game. Let’s dive into this easy yet impressive Trader Joe’s pasta recipe that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
– 1 package of Trader Joe’s organic pasta (of your choice)
– 1 jar of Trader Joe’s marinara sauce
– 1 pound of ground Italian sausage
– 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Directions
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks until browned. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour the jar of marinara sauce into the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Stir in the cooked Italian sausage and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the pasta in individual bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
FAQ
Q: Can I use any type of pasta from Trader Joe’s for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta variety available at Trader Joe’s, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Choose your favorite shape or try something new to add variety to the dish.
Q: Can I substitute the Italian sausage with another protein?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a different protein or are looking for a vegetarian option, feel free to substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a meatless alternative.
Q: How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?
A: The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick to the dish, but you can adjust the amount according to your preference. If you enjoy a spicier kick, simply add more red pepper flakes, or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
Q: Can I prepare this pasta in advance for a dinner party?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately in advance and combine them just before serving. Simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop and toss the cooked pasta in the warm sauce before serving to ensure a fresh and flavorful dish for your guests.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: The recipe is a crowd-pleaser and can be enjoyed by both adults and kids. If serving to children, you can adjust the spice level to suit their taste preferences by reducing or omitting the red pepper flakes.
This simple yet delectable Trader Joe’s pasta recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a memorable pasta dish that will impress your loved ones and leave them coming back for seconds.
