Rustic Pasta

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of rustic pasta – its simplicity, rich flavors, and soul-warming goodness make it a favorite in many households. This recipe for Rustic Pasta is a delightful blend of tangy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and hearty Italian sausage, all coming together to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound of your favorite pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
– 1 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove any excess grease from the skillet, leaving just enough to sauté the onions.

3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss everything together gently, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

6. Serve the Rustic Pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Enjoy the delightful medley of flavors in this Rustic Pasta dish – the savory Italian sausage, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the aromatic herbs all come together to create a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or whipping up a weeknight dinner for your family, this recipe is a winner every time. Make sure to have some crusty bread on hand to mop up any last bits of sauce on your plate. Buon appetito!