Make a one pot meal with a fresh ingredients and a spectacular sauce that is cooked right into the pasta and is ready in 20 minutes. It's foolproof, light and savory.
3 c. halved grape tomatoes, divided
2 T. chopped cilantro, divided, optional (substitute with cumin, to taste, if preferred)
1 large onion, sliced
1 lb. smoked hot sausage links, hot Italian sausage or chorizo, precooked and sliced
1-2 jalapenos, sliced, to taste or green chiles
4 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
1 lb. dry spaghetti or your favorite pasta
1 1/2 t. kosher salt
1 t. freshly ground black pepper
5 c. water
4 oz. cream cheese, optional*
Set aside 1 c. halved tomatoes and 1 T. chopped cilantro.
Combine remaining ingredients in a large 12 inch pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat; cover; bring to a boil. When water is boiling, uncover; cook 7-9 minutes until pasta is al dente. Toss pasta occasionally to keep pasta from sticking. The liquid will be mostly absorbed when the pasta is finished cooking.
Add in remaining tomatoes and cilantro; toss to combine.
Serve.
6-8 servings.
* Optional: Finish the sauce with 4 oz. cream cheese stirred into the pasta for a creamier and less spicy sauce.