Sweet Italian Sausage and Pasta soup

• 2 Lbs fresh sweet Italian sausage removed from casings

• tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 cups onion diced

• 4 tablespoons fresh garlic, minced

• Pinch red pepper flakes

• ¼ cup tomato paste

• 1 cans stewed tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

• 2 quarts vegetable stock

• 2 cups pasta, such as Caserecci

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped

• 1 can kidney beans drained

• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 2-3 Parmesan rinds ( if available) *see note

• 1/2 cup coarsely grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

• Fresh chopped parsley, optional

  In a large stock pot Saute the onion and garlic till soft, remove

  Add the sausage and brown. Combine all the ingredients together except Pasta, grated Parmesan and parsley and bring to a simmer. Turn to low and simmer for 30 minutes. Add the Pasta 12-15 minutes before serving and stir to combine. Cook until pasta is tender. Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan and parsley!

*Note

When I purchase my aged Parmesan I cut off the thick rind and freeze in a zip lock for all sauces and soups that can benefit from the flavor! You’ll be surprised how much flavor it adds.