Sweet Sausage Mediterranean Penne Pasta

This recipie was inspired by #269690 with alterations to our family's taste. My husband and I made this for some friends while on vacation and it was a huge hit, even with all the children ranging from 8 to 18. I hope everyone enjoys it as much as we do. This is a very popular request for meals at our house.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 5  links  sweet Italian sausage (we like Johnsonville)
• 1 (8 ounce) box  penne rigate
• 1 (14 1/2ounce) can diced tomatoes with basil oregano and garlic (diced, Del Monte makes these)
• 1 (6 ounce) jar  marinated artichoke hearts
• 1 (2 ounce) can black olives, sliced (or can use fresh)
• 1⁄2 cup butter
• 4  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  bunch fresh asparagus
• 2  teaspoons dried oregano (or to taste or can use fresh)
• 2  teaspoons dried sweet basil leaves (or to taste or can use fresh)
• 1⁄2 cup parmesan cheese, fresh shaved

Directions

1. Cook pasta per directions on package.
2. Cut asparagus into 1 inch pieces.
3. Slice sausage links. In large skillet (we use a wok), sauté sausage and asparagus until almost fully cooked (about 7 - 10 minutes). Remove from skillet / wok and set aside.
4. In same skillet / wok, bring butter, garlic, tomatoes (with juices), black olives (drained) and artichokes (including marinade), to a boil.
5. Lower heat. Add back sausage and asparagus, basil, and oregano then simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Place pasta in serving bowl and pour skillet / wok mixture over pasta.
7. Sprinkle with fresh shaved parmesan cheese and serve.