Chicken Sausages With Zucchini, Tomatoes, And Pasta

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Sausages: These provide a great flavor base for the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausages work well too. For a fuller flavor, use Italian-style chicken sausages.

Zucchini: A great vegetable that adds texture and nutrition. If zucchini isn’t available, try yellow squash or even bell peppers for a different twist.

Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and juiciness. You can substitute with regular tomatoes, just chop them into small pieces. Canned diced tomatoes can work as well, especially when fresh ones aren’t in season.

Pasta: Penne and rigatoni are perfect for this dish, but feel free to use whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Any pasta shape you enjoy will work!

Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty note. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can provide a similar cheesy flavor. You can also use pecorino romano for a sharper taste.

How Do You Sauté Vegetables Without Making Them Soggy?

It’s important to sauté vegetables correctly to keep them crisp and tasty. Here’s how you can do it:

• Start with a hot pan. Make sure to heat your oil first before adding the zucchini, around medium heat.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If there are too many veggies at once, they will steam instead of sauté. Do this in batches if necessary.
• Cook in intervals. Add the zucchinis first, then garlic and tomatoes. This ensures that each veggie cooks to its best texture without getting mushy.

Following these simple steps will give you beautifully sautéed vegetables every time!

How to Make Chicken Sausages With Zucchini, Tomatoes, And Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Dish:

• 1 pound chicken sausages, sliced
• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious meal will take you about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick weeknight dinner that’s full of flavor and healthy ingredients!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a good pinch of salt to the water. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (just tender but still slightly firm). After it’s cooked, drain the pasta but remember to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later!

2. Sauté the Sausages:

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages to the skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to turn golden brown and be cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

In the same skillet where you cooked the sausages, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced zucchinis and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. Next, add the minced garlic and the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these together for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are just a bit soft and juicy.

4. Combine Ingredients:

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Return the cooked chicken sausages to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and the reserved pasta water. Stir everything well until it’s nicely mixed together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:

Plate up your delicious pasta dish! Sprinkle it generously with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top for a burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy your meal warm!

Can I Substitute Chicken Sausages with Another Type?

Absolutely! You can use turkey sausages, pork sausages, or even plant-based sausages if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the cooking time matches the type of sausage you choose, especially if you opt for a raw variety.

What If I Don’t Have Italian Seasoning?

No problem! You can make your own mix with a combination of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Just use approximately 1/4 teaspoon of each to create a similar flavor profile.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.

Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Dish?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked evenly.