Sometimes making a meal can be a real pain.  You’re tired, the kids are screaming and you don’t feel like cooking.  But fast food is not an option (again) and you want your family to eat a healthy meal.  This pasta takes only about 20 minutes to make and is sure to make everyone happy, including you.

I previously posted a recipe for slow roasted tomatoes which is an ingredient in this hearty pasta. If you do not have the roasted tomatoes on hand, substitute with a can of chopped tomatoes seasoned with Italian herbs.

Quick and Easy Pasta with Slow Roasted Tomatoes

12 oz farfalle pasta

2 TB olive oil from slow roasted tomatoes

4 (one 12 oz package) Spinach, Fontina & Roasted Garlic Chicken Sausage* or cooked sausage of your choice, sliced

1 portion of slow roasted tomatoes, chopped, with reserved olive oil

Kosher salt

freshly ground black pepper

freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

In a large pot of salted, boiling water cook pasta according to directions.  While pasta is cooking, heat the oil over medium flame in large skillet.   Cook sausage for 4-5 minutes, until lightly browned.  Stirring, add chopped tomatoes and remaining olive oil.  Carefully ladle about 1-2 cups of the pasta cooking water into the skillet.  Bring sauce to a boil, lower heat to simmer, let sauce thicken slightly.  If needed add more pasta water if sauce is too dry.  When pasta is done, add it to the skillet.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.  Grate Parmesan cheese over the top if desired.

*found at Trader Joe’s Markets