Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta

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Try making this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta for your next dinner option! Shrimp is packed with antioxidants and is beneficial to both brain and heart health. Organic chicken sausage serves as an excellent source of protein and helps to build muscle. Chicken broth is loaded with essential nutrients including collagen, magnesium, calcium, and iron. It also helps improve digestion, promote healthy skin, and protect your joints. Cashews offer a wide variety of health benefits including supporting healthy bones, aiding in weight management, and regulating blood sugar levels. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

Cajun Spice Mixture:

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp thyme

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp oregano

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

  • 1 tsp sea salt

Pasta:

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 lb shrimp

  • 12 oz organic chicken sausage cut into ¼ inch round slices

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • Half white onion, chopped

  • 12 oz box of gluten-free penne pasta

  • 4 cups chicken broth

  • 2 tbsp water

  • 1 tbsp arrowroot powder

Cream:

  • ½ cup water

  • 1 cup raw, unsalted cashews, soaked in warm water for about 20 minutes

Instructions:

1) In a small bowl, combine all the cajun spices to form the mixture.

2) Begin cooking the shrimp by heating 1 tbsp of the olive oil in a large and deep skillet. Add in the shrimp and 2 tsp of the cajun spice mixture. Cook for two minutes on each side, transfer to a separate dish to keep warm, and set aside.

3) Add the remaining tbsp of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the sausage slices, red pepper, and onion. Toss and sauté for about 5 minutes.

4) Pour in the pasta noodles, chicken broth, and remainder of cajun spice mixture and stir well to combine.

5) Cover the skillet and bring to a boil. Set heat to medium-high heat and stir occasionally for about 10 minutes or until noodles are fully cooked through and broth has reduced. 

6) In a small bowl, mix together the water and arrowroot powder. Pour this mixture into the skillet and combine well. Add in the cooked shrimp as well. Reduce heat to low and mix until mixture begins to bubble.

7) While that is cooking, begin making the cream by blending the soaked cashews and water in a high-speed blender until a creamy mixture is formed.

8) Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the cashew cream. Top with chopped green onions and other toppings of choice and enjoy!