Lunch: Pasta, Sausage, and Bean Ragoût

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Spinach, Basil

Health benefits of Pasta, Sausage, and Bean Ragoût

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being. Basil is an excellent stress reliever, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 pound ground beef (15 percent fat)
3 spicy Italian sausages, casings removed
2 14 1/2-ounce cans diced tomatoes in juice with garlic, oregano, and basil
2 14-ounce cans low-salt chicken broth
1 15-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), drained
1 1/2 cups chopped fresh basil, divided
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
1/2 cup small elbow macaroni
1 6-ounce bag baby spinach leaves
1/3 cup grated Romano cheese
Additional grated Romano cheese

Instructions

Heat oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté 6 minutes. Add beef and sausage and sauté until brown, breaking up meats with back of fork, about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes with juice, broth, beans, 1 cup basil, oregano, and dried crushed red pepper. Simmer 15 minutes to blend flavors, stirring occasionally. Add pasta and cook until tender but still firm to bite, about 15 more minutes. Add spinach and cook just until wilted, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. Mix in 1/3 cup cheese and remaining 1/2 cup basil. Season ragout with salt and pepper; ladle into bowls. Serve, passing additional cheese separately.