Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary! This Creamy Lemon Arugula Pasta with Sausage is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines the zesty brightness of lemon, the peppery punch of arugula, and the rich, savory goodness of crispy sausage. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Get ready to become the kitchen hero you were always meant to be!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300g pasta
- 200g sausage, sliced
- 100g arugula
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should taste like sea water to properly season the pasta.
- While the water is heating, slice the sausage into thin rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and better integration with the pasta.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until golden brown and crispy, approximately 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the same skillet with the sausage, reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Zest the entire lemon and squeeze its juice into the cream sauce. Stir to incorporate, creating a bright, tangy flavor profile.
- Drain the pasta and add directly to the skillet with the cream sauce and sausage. Toss to coat evenly, using reserved pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
- Remove skillet from heat and gently fold in fresh arugula, allowing its peppery leaves to slightly wilt from the residual heat.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The sausage will already provide some saltiness, so adjust carefully.
- Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the creamy sauce, crispy sausage, and peppery arugula in each bite.
Tips
- Salt Your Water Generously: The key to flavorful pasta starts with well-salted boiling water. It should taste like the sea to properly season your pasta from the inside out.
- Crisp Your Sausage: Take time to brown the sausage thoroughly. Those golden, crispy edges will add incredible depth of flavor to your entire dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency and helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Timing is Everything: Add the arugula at the very end and let the residual heat gently wilt the leaves. This preserves its vibrant color and fresh, peppery flavor.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly grated Parmesan and lemon zest as a final garnish. These fresh touches elevate the entire dish and add brightness and complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 95mg
