Description
A vibrant and hearty Italian-inspired meal featuring flavorful chicken sausages sautéed with fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, combined with perfectly cooked short pasta for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4 chicken sausages (Italian or spicy), sliced
Vegetables
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 12 oz short pasta (penne or fusilli)
Others
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your short pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes depending on the pasta type. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the sausages: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned and cooked through.
- Sauté the vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, diced zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet with the sausages. Cook together for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften but still hold their shape.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the contents of the skillet. Gently stir to combine and allow the flavors to meld for 1-2 minutes.
- Combine pasta and sausage mixture: Add the drained pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to incorporate flavors and heat evenly.
- Serve: Transfer to serving plates and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an added savory finish.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausages if preferred for a leaner protein option.
- For a spicy kick, choose spicy Italian chicken sausages or add red pepper flakes.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added as garnish for extra freshness.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free if required.
- Make sure not to overcook the zucchini and tomatoes to keep their texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
