This is a classic pasta dish combining sausage, tomatoes, and white beans. It's filling and comforting and easy to prepare. It also goes very nicely with the roasted pepper-topped bread rounds. Or, serve the bruschetta with the salad. It is up to you.
Fresh herbs keep the flavors bright here.
If you have extra basil, which we hope you do, add some leaves to the salad. Our vote goes to grated Parmigiano Reggiano, which does cost a little bit more but is well worth it. We're so sold on it that we consider it a staple. Cook the orecchiette and sauce. In a pasta pot or large saucepan, bring 3 quarts lightly salted water to a boil, covered, over high heat.