This Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini is a quick and tasty dinner option! It combines flavorful chicken sausage and fresh zucchini for a satisfying meal.
Making this dish is a breeze! I love how the zucchini adds a nice crunch and the sausage brings a great flavor without much fuss. Perfect for busy nights! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I like rotini because the spiral shape holds sauce well. If you don’t have it, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option!
Chicken Sausage: This adds great flavor without too much fuss. You can use turkey sausage for a leaner choice or switch it with Italian sausage if you want a bit more spice.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini makes this dish light and colorful. If zucchini isn’t in season, try yellow squash or bell peppers for a different twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bring sweetness and color. If you can’t find fresh tomatoes, use canned diced tomatoes for convenience, just drain them first.
Parmesan Cheese: Always a win in pasta! If you need a dairy-free option, cashew cheese or nutritional yeast can provide a similar flavor.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta well sets the foundation for your dish. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Use a large pot with plenty of salted water, about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon. This enhances flavor.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding pasta to avoid sticking.
- Stir occasionally during cooking. Check tenderness a minute before the suggested time for perfect al dente!
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps to create a lovely sauce texture later.
Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 25 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick option for any weeknight dinner. With just the right amount of cooking time, you’ll have a warm, tasty meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining it. Set the cooked pasta aside for later!
2. Brown the Chicken Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned and heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced zucchini and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it’s tender but still a bit crisp. After that, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Then, add the cooked pasta along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything to combine, allowing the pasta water to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
5. Season and Serve:
Stir in the chopped parsley (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, tossing gently to coat. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top if you like!
This recipe yields a flavorful, colorful one-pan dish where the savory sausage pairs perfectly with fresh zucchini and bright tomatoes, all coated in a light, garlicky sauce. Enjoy your easy chicken sausage pasta with zucchini!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini
Can I Substitute the Chicken Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or Italian sausage for a more robust flavor. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms instead!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with vegetables! Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli would be great additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, so everything remains tender and delicious.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to revive the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use gluten-free pasta such as brown rice or quinoa pasta. Adjust the cooking time as needed, and enjoy this dish without gluten!
