Kale and Sausage Penne

Matt has been asking to have some input on the new meal options and his recent choice was a HUGE hit. This kale and sausage penne with a lemon cream sauce was packed with flavor and I would highly recommend it. There is quite a bit of heat from the red pepper flake so if you aren't a big spice fan you may want to reduce or eliminate it. Also, there are several opportunities to make it a little healthier (different sausage or sauce bases) and I hope to try a variation soon. Also, kale is a SUPER FOOD. I encourage you to tryout this DELICIOUS pasta dish that is PACKED with flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients
olive oil
6 cloves of garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped (I used a mini food processor)
1 tsp. crushed red pepper flake
1 lb. Italian sausage
1 bunch kale, stemmed and roughly chopped
2 C half and half
1/2 C plain greek yogurt
1/2-3/4 C grated Parmesan
1 1/2 Tbs. lemon juice (could use juice and zest of 1 lemon)
ground nutmeg to taste *NOT MUCH
salt and pepper to taste
1 lb. penne pasta

Directions
Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté garlic, onion, and red pepper until golden brown (8-10 minutes)

Add sausage and cook through stirring regularly (16-18 minutes)

Add kale and cook until wilted, stirring regularly (7-8 minutes)

Add half and half and greek yogurt, bring to a simmer, cook, stirring regularly until reduced by 1/3 (7-8 minutes)

Stir in Parmesan, lemon juice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Boil pasta until al dente (8-9 minutes). Reserving 1/4 C of water

Add pasta and cooking water to sausage mixture and incorporate well, cooking for 5 minutes and enjoy

I hope you take the time to try this DELICIOUS recipe! It wasn't too strenuous and the flavor is incredible. It's amazing what trying something new can do.