Spicy Italian Sausage and Orecchiete

Instructions

1. Cook pasta as directed on package. Drain well. Set aside. 

2. Mix basil, Italian seasoning, parsley, garlic powder and fennel seed in a small bowl. Set aside. 

3. Heat olive oil in large deep saucepan on medium heat. Add sausage and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the seasoning mixture. Cook and crumble sausage until browned, about 8 minutes. Use slotted spoon to remove from pan to large bowl. Keep warm. 

4. Add bell pepper, onion, fennel, tomatoes, salt and remaining 3 teaspoons seasoning mixture to skillet. Cook and stir about 8 minutes, until softened.  

5. Reduce heat to low and add sausage, pasta and 1/2 cup of the Romano cheese to skillet, tossing gently to mix well. Serve hot, garnished with remaining Romano cheese and additional parsley, if desired.