Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the spinach and cook until just wilted. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, to taste.
  5. Toss the cooked penne into the skillet with the sausage mixture. Add reserved pasta water as needed to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
  6. Plate the dish and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan, if desired.