This tasty dish features juicy chicken sausages, fresh zucchini, and ripe tomatoes all tossed with pasta. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any day!
I love how colorful it is—it’s hard not to smile while eating! Plus, it’s quick to make, so dinner can be ready in no time. Just toss it all together and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rigatoni for its sturdy texture which holds sauce nicely. You can swap it with any pasta – penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat for a healthier option work great too.
Chicken Sausages: These add flavor and protein. If you’re looking for a lighter choice or need a meatless meal, try turkey sausages or even plant-based sausage options.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a lovely crunch. If it’s out of season, yellow squash can be a nice substitute. For a different flavor, consider bell peppers or asparagus.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they enhance the dish. If you can’t find them, use canned diced tomatoes or regular tomatoes cut into chunks. Just sauté them a bit longer.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty kick. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you’re looking for a sharper flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta and Sausages Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pasta and sausages just right is key to this dish. Follow these tips for success:
- When boiling pasta, add salt to the water. This adds flavor to the pasta itself.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the hot sausage and vegetables.
- For the sausages, ensure they are evenly browned for the best flavor. Monitor closely to prevent burning, about 5-7 minutes should do.
Start with high heat to get that nice browning, and adjust the heat if necessary. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 8 oz rigatoni or your choice of pasta
- 1 lb chicken sausages, sliced into rounds
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including time for cooking the pasta, sausages, and vegetables. It’s a quick and delicious meal you can whip up any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—tender but still slightly firm. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander but keep a bit of the pasta water aside for later. This will help with mixing everything later!
2. Cook the Sausages:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken sausages. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until it smells amazing! Now, add the sliced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté everything together for about 5-6 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the tomatoes start to soften up—this will add a lovely flavor!
4. Combine:
Time to bring it all together! Add the cooked sausages back into the skillet with the veggies. Then add the cooked pasta, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together gently, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to help it all combine nicely.
5. Serve:
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s well mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve your delicious dish in bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top for a finishing touch. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While chicken sausages work great, you can substitute them with turkey, pork, or even plant-based sausages. Just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the skillet. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of sausage you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No problem! You can swap zucchini for other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as some veggies may require a bit longer to become tender.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water to help loosen the pasta. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
