Sausage, Spinach, and Cherry Tomato Pasta Arrabiata

This easy and healthier version of Pasta Arrabiata is packed with flavor from red pepper flakes, garlic, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and lean turkey sausage.

Over here in Los Angeles, we are in the middle of a pretty brutal heat wave and I am am feeling a bit jealous of the beautiful fall weather many other parts of the country are getting. While I don't miss winter very much, I seriously miss the fall. The cooler weather, scarves, boots, apple picking, changing leaves - I love it all. And along with fall weather, I remember loving how our meals begin to switch as well. We began to crave heartier, comforting meals and finally weren't scared to turn on the oven or stand by the stove. Personally I always crave spice as well when cold weather hits. I think I like the way it really down warm you up from the inside out.

Today's recipe for Sausage, Spinach, and Cherry Tomato Pasta Arrabiata is a great meal for the beginning of fall. Warm, hearty, and spicy - it's a meal that feels comforting and cozy but is surprisingly light when it comes to a dish with pasta and sausage. The arrabiate sauce is kicked up with red pepper flakes, garlic, and Italian seasoning and made with a combination of fresh tomatoes and tomato paste. You could use any tomato and canned San Marzano tomatoes would be great if you can't find any good tomatoes. I like to add spinach at the end to work in some greens but you could also add mushrooms, broccolini, or leaves the greens out completely for a more traditional dish. Topped with fresh basil and some Parmesan or Pecorino - it's one easy and delicious meal.