Sausage Asparagus Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz (250 g) orecchiette (or another kind of short pasta)
• 8 oz (250 g) fresh asparagus, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb (450 g) chicken sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium leek (white and light green parts only), sliced
• 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 cup (150 g) peas (fresh or frozen)
• 3/4 cup (180 g) cream cheese
• 1/3 cup (30 g) parmesan, grated
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of water to a...: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it generously and cook the pasta al dente according to the instructions on the package.

2. 2

   When there are just 2-3 minutes left, add...: When there are just 2-3 minutes left, add the asparagus to the to the pot of boiling pasta. Drain the pasta and asparagus, reserving about 1-2 cups of the cooking water.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large,...: Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan and cook the chicken sausage over medium heat for 4-5 minutes or until slightly golden.

4. 4

   Add the leek, garlic and red chili flakes...: Add the leek, garlic and red chili flakes and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often.

5. 5

   Next, stir in the peas and cook for...: Next, stir in the peas and cook for 2-3 minutes.

6. 6

   Add the cream cheese and 1/2 cup of...: Add the cream cheese and 1/2 cup of pasta water and stir well to combine. Add more of the reserved pasta water as needed.

7. 7

   Transfer the cooked pasta and asparagus to the...: Transfer the cooked pasta and asparagus to the sauce pan and toss well to combine.

8. 8

   Stir in the grated parmesan, season to taste...: Stir in the grated parmesan, season to taste and serve immediately, with extra grated parmesan on top if you like.