This Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta is a cozy dish filled with tasty chicken sausage, fresh zucchini, and juicy tomatoes. It’s colorful and perfect for a quick dinner!
Honestly, the combo of flavors makes me happy every time I take a bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without a fuss. I whip this up in no time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: You can use penne or rigatoni for this dish, but feel free to opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Both types work just as well and will give you that satisfying bite.
Chicken Sausage: I love using pre-cooked chicken sausage because it’s quick and easy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage is a great substitute. You can also use any other sausage you like!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice crunch. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use asparagus or bell peppers instead. They’ll add a different flavor but still taste delicious!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet cherry tomatoes burst with flavor in this dish! If you have larger tomatoes on hand, just chop them up—they’ll still work beautifully. Canned diced tomatoes also make a nice alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a creamy touch. If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
How Can I Perfectly Sauté Vegetables Without Burning Them?
Sautéing vegetables gently ensures they become tender without charred bits. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat; too high can lead to burning.
- Use a sturdy skillet and add olive oil until it shimmers—this means the oil is hot enough.
- Add onions first, as they take longer to soften; follow with garlic after they’re translucent.
- Add the zucchini next, stirring occasionally to cook evenly. If you’re worried, you can add a splash of water to steam them slightly—this softens them without browning!
Remember, patience is key! Let them cook slowly to bring out the best flavors.
Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
For the Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken sausage, sliced (use pre-cooked or raw; if raw, cook thoroughly)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional for some heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes gathering ingredients, cooking pasta, and sautéing the sausage and veggies—all in a fun, quick process for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Sauté the Chicken Sausage:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook it for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be nicely browned and cooked through! When it’s done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for now.
3. Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add your diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the sliced zucchinis and cook for 4-5 minutes. Make sure they are tender but still slightly crisp!
4. Add the Tomatoes and Combine:
Now it’s time for the cherry tomatoes! Stir them into the skillet along with the red chili flakes if you’re using them. Allow everything to cook for around 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
5. Bring it All Together:
Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste for that extra punch of flavor!
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Pour in that reserved pasta cooking water to help loosen up the sauce. Give everything a good toss over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes to really mix those flavors together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the top with delicious grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of your easy, vibrant chicken sausage pasta!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While chicken sausage adds a nice flavor, you can easily substitute it with turkey sausage, Italian sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage if you prefer a meatless option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the sausage you choose!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
For a vegetarian version, simply skip the sausage and add more veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. For a vegan dish, use plant-based sausage and omit the Parmesan cheese, or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers? How Can I Store Them?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can certainly prep ingredients ahead of time! Chop your veggies and slice the sausage the day before, then refrigerate them. Just cook the pasta and sauté everything together when you’re ready to enjoy your meal!
