Ingredients

5 tablespoons olive oil
6 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 garlic cloves , minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 plum tomatoes , halved lengthwise
1 eggplant , cut into 1/2 inch slices
1 large red onion , cut into 1/2 inch slices
2 Italian sausages ( Preferably turkey can be hot or sweet )
8 ounces wagon wheel macaroni
Warm pasta salads are a popular and versatile dish that can be customized to your taste and mood. They are usually made with cooked pasta, grilled or roasted vegetables, and a tangy or creamy dressing that brings all the flavors together. In this recipe, we are going to make a warm pasta salad with Italian turkey sausage that is both hearty and healthy. The turkey sausage is a leaner and spicier alternative to the traditional pork sausage, and the grilled vegetables add texture, color, and sweetness to the dish. The macaroni we are using is wagon wheel-shaped that holds the dressing and vegetables well, but you can substitute it with any pasta shape you like. This warm pasta salad is perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch or a quick weekday dinner that can be made ahead of time and reheated in the microwave or oven. Let's get started and cook this delicious and nutritious warm pasta salad with Italian turkey sausage!

Instructions

1.Cook the macaroni following package instructions, and toss it with 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large bowl.
2.In another bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3.Heat grill to medium-high heat. Brush the eggplant, sausage, onion, and tomatoes with the remaining olive oil. Grill them, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
4.Cut the grilled vegetables and sausages into bite-sized pieces and toss them with the cooked macaroni and dressing.
5.Serve immediately or let it chill until serving time.

PROS

This warm pasta salad with Italian turkey sausage is a healthy, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal.

It is the perfect combination of carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, and healthy fats that will keep you full and satisfied.

The grilled vegetables give it a smoky and sweet flavor that complements the spicy and savory sausage and tangy dressing.

It can be served as a side dish or a main course for lunch or dinner.

CONS

This pasta salad is high in calories, fat, and sodium.

It should be consumed in moderation, especially if you are watching your weight or have cardiovascular or renal problems.

The sausage may contain additives, preservatives, or allergens, so make sure to check the label and choose a brand that suits your preferences and needs.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This pasta salad is a good source of energy, fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
The macaroni provides complex carbohydrates that release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels.
The turkey sausage is a lean meat that contains less fat and cholesterol than pork or beef sausage, and more protein and iron that support muscle growth and oxygen transport in the body.
The vegetables are rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients, and fiber that promote digestion, immunity, and overall health.
The olive oil and red wine vinegar in the dressing are healthy fats that can reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Overall, this warm pasta salad with Italian turkey sausage is a balanced and delicious meal that can be part of a healthy and enjoyable diet.

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