Cajun Pasta

Let me preface this post with some facts. P has a sensitive stomach and a picky palette. Therefore when he doesn't like something, that does not mean that millions-perhaps billions-of people will agree. He also asked me to announce in the blog that turkey sausage is not sausage and does not count as sausage. He disapproves.

Now onto the recipe. I got this recipe from The Rookie Baker, and adapted it a bit. Added peppers, reduced the amount of half and half, used whole wheat pasta, etc.

Cajun Pasta with Turkey Sausage

1 box of whole wheat penne pasta
1/2 cup half and half
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped red and green bell pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup white wine

1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 (16-ounce) package turkey kielbasa, cut into bite-size pieces

In a large pot, boil water for pasta.

Brown kielbasa over medium heat in a large skillet. Once browned, transfer to a paper towel lined plate and set aside.

In the same large skillet heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and saute for approximately 2 minutes. Add peppers and saute 1-2 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds or until fragrant. Meanwhile, boil pasta and cook until al dente.

Add white wine and chicken broth to skillet and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom. Let wine or broth reduce by half, about 5 minutes. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, pepper, salt, and tomato paste.

Add half and half and heat to almost bubbling, then reduce heat to low. Allow the cream mixture to reduce, approximately 5 minutes. I added the sausage back to the pan here to reheat.

Drain pasta and add to skillet, toss.

The verdict: Tasty, quick and easy weeknight meal. P did not care for the turkey sausage, the Cajun seasoning, or the cream sauce. (basically the whole dish) More leftovers for me! This dish is not AMAZING, but better than out-of-a-box and not labor intensive.