Sausage and Bow-Tie Pasta Florentine Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pound hot Italian sausage links
• 1 (12 ounce) package bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (16 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
• teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven's broiler and set the oven rack at about 6 inches from the heat source.
2. Place the sausage links onto a broiler pan, and broil in the preheated oven until the sausage is crispy on the outside and no longer pink on the inside, about 8 minutes. Turn the sausage once as it cooks.
3. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the bow-tie pasta, and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot along with the spinach; keep warm over medium-low heat.
4. Heat the olive oil in a separate pot over medium heat, and stir in the garlic. Cook until the garlic softens and the aroma mellows, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the Alfredo sauce and black pepper, then bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
6. Cut the cooked sausage into bite-sized pieces, and add to the simmering Alfredo sauce along with the pasta and spinach. Stir until the pasta is hot and well coated with the sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (yield: 6 servings):

Calories	625
Total Fat	39g
Saturated Fat	14g
Cholesterol	71mg
Sodium	1252mg
Total Carbohydrate	48g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	23g
Vitamin C	4mg
Calcium	89mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	435mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

Sausage and Bow-Tie Pasta Florentine is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of spicy Italian sausage, tender bow-tie pasta (farfalle), and a creamy Alfredo sauce. With the addition of spinach, this recipe provides a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and a touch of greenery, making it a beloved option for dinner parties or family meals.

History and Origin

The origins of Florentine-style dishes can be traced back to Florence, Italy, where spinach and creamy sauces are frequently used in traditional Tuscan cooking. The term Florentine generally refers to dishes that are prepared with spinach, and it has become popular worldwide. However, the combination of sausage, Alfredo sauce, and pasta, as seen in this recipe, likely evolved as part of the broader Italian-American culinary tradition, blending Italian ingredients with American preferences for rich, creamy dishes. This fusion resulted in a dish that combines the bold flavors of Italy with the comforts of classic American comfort food.

Regional Features

In Italy, pasta dishes often differ greatly depending on the region. For example, in the northern regions, creamy sauces and meats like sausage are more common, while southern Italy favors lighter olive oil-based sauces with a more varied selection of fresh vegetables. The Florentine twist on this recipe aligns with the northern Italian love for creamy textures and hearty flavors, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy rich, flavorful meals.

Differences from Similar Dishes

At first glance, Sausage and Bow-Tie Pasta Florentine might seem similar to other Italian pasta dishes, such as spaghetti with sausage or pasta Alfredo. However, this dish sets itself apart with the unique combination of spicy sausage, creamy Alfredo sauce, and spinach. While many Italian-American pasta dishes feature marinara sauce or meatballs, the Florentine version uses a rich, creamy sauce that complements the spicy sausage, creating a hearty, savory meal that is distinct in both texture and flavor.

Where Is It Usually Served?

This dish is typically served in casual dining settings, from family dinners to restaurant menus. It is particularly popular in Italian-American cuisine, where hearty and flavorful pasta dishes are a staple. Due to its richness, it is commonly enjoyed as a main course at dinner or lunch. Given its versatility, it can also be served at gatherings or festive meals, where it is sure to please a crowd with its comforting and indulgent flavors.

Interesting Facts

• Spinach, an essential ingredient in Florentine dishes, is packed with iron and vitamins, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Alfredo sauce was originally created in Rome by a chef named Alfredo di Lelio, who invented the sauce as a way to encourage his wife to eat during pregnancy. It became internationally famous after Hollywood stars in the 1920s dined at his restaurant and spread the word.
• The bow-tie pasta used in this recipe, also known as farfalle, is shaped like little butterfly wings, adding a playful element to the dish and making it particularly popular with children.
• Many people modify this dish by substituting the spicy sausage with a milder version, or even using different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, depending on personal preference.

Sausage and Bow-Tie Pasta Florentine is a perfect example of how Italian flavors can be adapted to suit various tastes. Whether youre cooking for a family or hosting friends, this dish offers a warm, comforting meal that combines the best of Italian-American cuisine.

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