sweet potato sausage skillet

My photo doesn't really make this recipe look all that appetizing.  And honestly it didn't sound all that appetizing when I first read it.  But, it was in Taste of Home's Healthy Cooking magazine, and it sounded like something Ry might eat (she wouldn't, of course) so we decided to give it a try.

I'm glad we gave it a go, because even though it wasn't the most amazing dinner I've ever had, it was pretty good.  AND it is healthy!  Score.  I'm not one for spicy foods, but I think if you wanted to jazz this up a bit you could use something to give it a little kick.  Or not, because I do think it is a great kid friendly recipe.

Sweet Potato Sausage Skillet 
(from the August/September 2010 issue of Healthy Cooking)

Ingredients
3 cups uncooked whole wheat spiral pasta
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 tablespoon water
8 ounces smoked turkey sausage, cut into 1/4 inch slices
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup half and half
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions
1.  Cook pasta according to package directions.  Meanwhile, place potatoes and water in a microwave-safe bowl.  Cover and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes or until potatoes are almost tender.
2.  In a large nonstick skillet, cook the sausage, green pepper and onion in olive oil over medium heat for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.  Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer.
3.  Stir in the tomatoes, cream, salt, pepper and potatoes; heat through.  Drain pasta; stir into skillet.  Sprinkle with cheese.  Cover and let stand for 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

The great thing about this recipe?  1.25 cups will only cost you 253 calories.  Not too shabby at all.

Enjoy!