Introduction
This hearty and wholesome pasta dish brings together juicy chicken sausages, tender zucchini, and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, all tossed in perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a flavorful, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough for a weekend dinner. The fresh basil and Parmesan topping add a delightful finish that makes every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken sausages
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Cook the Sausages:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces. -
Sauté the Veggies:
Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add sliced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. -
Add Tomatoes & Season:
Stir in cherry tomatoes and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until tomatoes soften and release their juices. -
Combine Everything:
Return sliced sausages to the skillet. Mix everything well with the vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through. -
Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variation
- Spicy Kick: Swap the regular chicken sausages for spicy Italian chicken sausages or add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the vegetables. This small change will bring a bold heat that complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes.
- Vegetable Medley: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. These will not only boost the nutritional value but also add new textures and layers of flavor. Sauté them along with the zucchini for best results.
- Cheese Swap: Instead of Parmesan, try crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy contrast. This switch will give the dish a Mediterranean flair, perfect for those who enjoy bolder cheese flavors.
Cooking Notes
- For a spicier kick, use spicy chicken sausages or add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
- Substitute zucchini with yellow squash or bell peppers for variety.
- Gluten-free pasta works perfectly for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve the pasta alongside homemade garlic bread or toasted baguette slices. The crispy bread is perfect for soaking up the light sauce from the pasta and vegetables.
- Side Salad Addition: Add a fresh green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sausage and Parmesan. This light, tangy side dish will enhance the overall dining experience.
- Wine Pairing: Complement this meal with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Their crispness pairs beautifully with the fresh vegetables and chicken sausage flavors.
Tips
- Preheat the Skillet: Always preheat the skillet before adding oil and sausages. A hot pan ensures the sausages develop a delicious golden crust while remaining juicy inside.
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried oregano works well, using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish. Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their aroma and flavor.
- Customize Pasta Type: While penne or fusilli work great for this recipe, feel free to try whole-grain pasta or chickpea pasta for a healthier, high-protein alternative without sacrificing texture or taste.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken sausages with turkey, pork, or even plant-based sausages if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of sausage you use. -
What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?
Penne and fusilli are great choices because their shapes hold the sauce well. However, feel free to use spaghetti, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta for dietary needs without compromising texture or flavor. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sausage mixture up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out. -
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a great option that provides a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
Conclusion
This Savory Chicken Sausage Pasta with Zucchini and Roasted Tomatoes is a quick, wholesome, and versatile meal perfect for busy weeknights. Bursting with fresh flavors, hearty sausage, and tender vegetables, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re adding a spicy twist or pairing it with a fresh salad, this recipe offers endless possibilities for a delightful and nourishing dinner.
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Chicken Sausages with Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This hearty and wholesome pasta dish brings together juicy chicken sausages, tender zucchini, and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, all tossed in perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a flavorful, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough for a weekend dinner. The fresh basil and Parmesan topping add a delightful finish that makes every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken sausages
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Cook the Sausages:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces. -
Sauté the Veggies:
Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add sliced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. -
Add Tomatoes & Season:
Stir in cherry tomatoes and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until tomatoes soften and release their juices. -
Combine Everything:
Return sliced sausages to the skillet. Mix everything well with the vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through. -
Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use spicy chicken sausages or add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
- Substitute zucchini with yellow squash or bell peppers for variety.
- Gluten-free pasta works perfectly for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Chicken sausage pasta, zucchini pasta recipe, easy weeknight dinners, healthy sausage pasta