Turkey Sausage Pasta

When I found this recipe I knew that it had all of the makings of a 'winner' meal with my family,
and it did!
Pasta and turkey sausage in a Tomato Italian sauce lightly topped with cheese. This meal is quick to prepare and makes a great weeknight meal.
With the lean Turkey Sausage and 'Healthy Pasta' (I like to use Barilla Plus pasta) this makes a Healthy meal as well.

Turkey Sausage Pasta

adapted slightly from Good Things Catered

Ingredients:
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 lb. smoked lean turkey sausage, sliced
1/4 tsp chile flakes
3 cloves fresh garlic, diced finely
1/4 c. low sodium chicken stock
1- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes in juice
1- 14.5 oz can tomato sauce
1 Tbsp fresh oregano leaves, torn
3 c. fresh spinach
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
3/4 lb penne, or pasta of choice
1/2 c. flat leaf parsley, for garnish
Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, for garnish

Directions:
-In large stock pot over high heat, bring water to boil and cook pasta according to instructions.
-Meanwhile, in large pan over medium heat, add oil and bring up to almost smoking.
-Add chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to brown, about 10 minutes.
-Add thyme and sliced sausage and cook, stirring occasionally until beginning to brown, about 5 minutes.
-Add chili flakes and garlic and cook, while stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
-Deglaze the pan with chicken stock, scraping up browned bits from bottom of pan.
-Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring to combine well.
-Add oregano, spinach, and balsamic vinegar and bring to a boil.
-When pasta is finished cooking, drain well and place into pan with tomato sauce.
-Toss and remove from heat.
-Let cool slightly, mix well, plate and garnish.
-Serve immediately.