I noticed these seafood sausages in Trader Joes the other day. I was very fascinated and picked them up right away. I like to have some interesting things in my freezer for when I am in a rush.

I was busy packing for our trip and wasn’t planning on cooking- but then the sausages came to mind. I thought I could make a simple pasta using another staple in my freezer- chopped spinach. I think fresh baby spinach will look a lot nicer in this pasta but I didn’t have the time nor inclination to go to the market for fresh ingredients. I did have fresh thyme in my backyard- I added that.

I sauteed the sausages in some olive oil and garlic and then added the frozen spinach. I cooked some spinach and chive linguini- which I also got from Trader Joes- I just love that store. I added the al dente pasta to my pan and topped it with lots of fresh parmigiano reggiano cheese. That’s it- it was that simple.

The dish was delicious, quick and easy. It took me all of 20 minutes to put it together.  I love having such ingredients around to be able to whip up a meal in no time. Now lets see if my husband will notice it has no red sauce!!!

• 4 seafood sausages, cut into 1 inch rounds
• 3 garlic cloves, sliced thin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup frozen chopped spinach or 4 cups fresh spinach
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt
• ½ cup Parmigiano Reggiano, freshly grated
• ½ pound pasta- I used spinach and chives linguine, cooked al dente with ½ cup pasta water set aside

In a wide frying pan, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Cook for a minute on medium heat and add the sausages. Brown the sausages on medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Add the spinach and thyme and cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and the spare pasta water. Mix well and add the cheese and check for seasonings. Add salt and serve.