Ingredients:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or pasta water (optional)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
  3. Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and heated through.
  4. Add fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Season with dried herbs, salt, and pepper. If needed, pour in the reserved pasta water or chicken broth to loosen the mixture. Toss everything to combine well and heat through.
  6. Divide the pasta among serving plates. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil, if using.