Description
Homemade chicken sausages with zucchini and pasta blend Mediterranean flavors into a quick weeknight dinner. Italian-inspired ingredients create a delicious meal you’ll savor with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 chicken sausages (Italian or spicy)
- 2 zucchini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz (226 g) short pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 tbsps olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta until tender yet firm, approximately 8-10 minutes. Carefully drain and reserve.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Slice chicken sausages diagonally and sear until golden brown and crispy edges form, roughly 4-6 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to bloom for 30 seconds. Incorporate diced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes, stirring frequently to promote even cooking and prevent burning.
- Gently dust the sautéed mixture with Italian seasoning, cracked black pepper, and a pinch of kosher salt. Ensure each ingredient is evenly coated with the fragrant herbs.
- Transfer the previously drained pasta into the skillet, carefully folding and tossing to harmonize the ingredients. Allow the flavors to meld together for an additional 2-3 minutes over gentle heat.
- For a luxurious finish, shower the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a delectable layer of umami and texture. Serve immediately while warm and vibrant.
Notes
- Swap chicken sausages with turkey or plant-based alternatives for different dietary preferences.
- Toast herbs like Italian seasoning briefly in the skillet before adding vegetables to enhance their aromatic flavors.
- Ensure zucchini is not overcooked by cutting into uniform pieces and sautéing quickly to maintain crispness.
- Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth while cooking to create a richer, more complex sauce base.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg