Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I love using penne or rigatoni for this recipe because they hold the sauce well. If you prefer, you can swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta! Just make sure to cook according to package instructions.

Chicken Sausage: Fresh chicken sausage is the star here! You can use either mild or spicy depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works great too. For a vegetarian twist, try plant-based sausage.

Zucchini: Zucchini adds a lovely texture and color. If you can’t find it, yellow squash or bell peppers make great substitutes. Even asparagus chunks would work nicely.

Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes provide a sweet pop! If they’re not in season, canned diced tomatoes can be a good alternative. Just drain them a bit to reduce excess moisture.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. If you want a dairy-free option, look for nutritional yeast for a similar taste. Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used in place of Parmesan as well.

How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right?

Cooking zucchini properly is essential for this dish. You want them to be tender but still have a slight bite to them. Here’s the technique to get it right:

• Slice your zucchini into even half-moons for uniform cooking.
• Add them to the skillet after the garlic, allowing them to cook for just 4-5 minutes.
• Don’t overcook! Keep an eye on them; once they start to soften, they are ready!

Cooking them until just tender allows the zucchinis to retain more flavor and a nice texture in the final dish!

Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Pasta Dish:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb (450g) chicken sausage, sliced (mild or spicy, according to preference)
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved from boiling pasta)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious pasta dish takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and sautéing the ingredients, and then 15 minutes combining them all into a delightful meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This water will help bring everything together later!

2. Brown the Chicken Sausage:

While the pasta is cooking, heated the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Zucchini:

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced zucchini. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften.

4. Add the Tomatoes:

Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften a bit but still hold their shape. This is where all those yummy flavors come together!

5. Mix it All Together:

Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Pour in the reserved pasta cooking water to help everything blend nicely. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld!

6. Season and Serve:

Finally, season your dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if you’re using it. Serve immediately, adding extra Parmesan on top if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful, easy-to-make chicken sausage pasta with fresh zucchini and tomatoes! It’s a sure hit that’s both satisfying and healthy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?

Absolutely! While chicken sausage is great for this recipe, you can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or Italian sausage for added flavor. Just cook them until browned, as with the chicken sausage, for the best results!

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or skip the sausage altogether. To keep it hearty, consider adding more vegetables or protein sources like chickpeas or lentils.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?

You can prepare some components in advance! Cook the pasta and sausage earlier in the day, then store separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, sauté the zucchini and tomatoes, add in the pre-cooked ingredients, and you’re good to go!