Pasta with Turkey Sausage and Smoked Mozzarella

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 14-ounce cans crushed tomatoes or whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 pound Italian turkey sausage, bulk or cut into 1/2-inch slices
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 3/4 pound fusilli pasta
• Salt
• 3 ounces smoked Mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onions and cook until they look clear and softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Pour in the tomatoes, adding all their juices. If you are using whole canned tomatoes, crush them with your fingers as they go into the skillet.
3. Stir in the sausage and red pepper flakes. Put a lid on the pan and let the sauce cook over medium low heat for 20 minutes, until it has reduced and thickened.
4. As the sauce cooks, make the pasta. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then season it with a teaspoon and a half of salt for every quart of water.
5. Cook the pasta as directed on the package, stopping when it is al dente, tender but still slightly firm. Drain the pasta.
6. Transfer the pasta and sauce to a large serving bowl and toss them together.
7. Add the cubed smoked mozzarella and stir until the cheese softens and turns a little melty. Finish with Parmesan cheese.