Sizzling Sausage and Cherry Tomato Pasta

1.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2.In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

3.In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

4.Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to burst and release their juices, about 5 minutes.

5.Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6.Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

7.Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss well to combine and adjust seasoning if necessary.

8.Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.