This easy chicken sausage pasta is packed with tasty bits of chicken sausage, fresh zucchini, and juicy tomatoes. It’s a colorful dish that’s both filling and healthy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend penne or rotini for this recipe because their shapes hold onto the sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap it with gluten-free pasta. It’s available in many grocery stores now!
Chicken Sausage: I find chicken sausage gives the dish a nice flavor without being too heavy. If you prefer turkey or pork sausage, those work great too! You can also use vegetarian sausage for a plant-based option.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a lovely crunch and nutrition. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash or even bell peppers could be a good substitute.
Cherry Tomatoes: The sweetness of cherry tomatoes really shines in this dish. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can also be used—they’re always handy to keep in the pantry.
Fresh Basil: I love the freshness of basil, but if you can’t find it, dried basil will work as well. Just remember, dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount.
How Do I Cook Zucchini Perfectly?
Cooking zucchini so it’s tender but not mushy is key. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start by slicing or dicing your zucchini evenly so they cook at the same time.
- Add them to the skillet after the garlic, cooking until they’re just tender. This usually takes about 4 minutes over medium heat.
- Avoid overcooking; you’ll want a slight bite to them, keeping their bright color and nutrients.
Don’t forget, they’ll continue to cook a bit more when you mix them with the pasta!
Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 lb (450g) chicken sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced or sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water, reserved
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish comes together in about 25-30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing your ingredients, and then the cooking process will take about 15-20 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain it. This will help make the sauce later!
2. Cook the Chicken Sausage:
While your pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for now.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Zucchini:
Next, toss the diced zucchini into the skillet. Cook it, stirring occasionally, for about 4 minutes until the zucchini is just tender but still bright green.
5. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until they start to soften a bit. Their juices will start to add flavor to your dish!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. This is where the flavors start to meld together beautifully.
7. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together over low heat. This will help thicken the sauce a little and coat the pasta nicely.
8. Add Cheese and Basil:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil until everything is well combined. Season with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste. Taste it and adjust the seasoning to your liking!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and basil if desired. Enjoy your comforting and vibrant chicken sausage pasta dish!
This meal is not just easy to make, but it’s also full of fresh ingredients and flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While chicken sausage is lighter, you can easily substitute it with turkey or pork sausage for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, go for plant-based sausage or even skip the sausage altogether and add more veggies!
Can I Make This Pasta Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are fantastic options made from rice, corn, or lentils that work well and taste delicious!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can prep a few elements in advance! Chop your veggies and slice the sausage ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh for the best texture. You can combine everything right before serving!
