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Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini

Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini
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This Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes & Zucchini recipe is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome Italian-inspired dish featuring savory Italian sausage, fresh ripe tomatoes, and tender zucchini. Ready in under 30 minutes, it combines balanced flavors and vibrant textures perfect for weeknight dinners or family meals. This versatile recipe offers options for vegetarian, gluten-free, and creamy variations, making it adaptable and satisfying for all tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces rigatoni pasta

Protein

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casing removed)

Vegetables

  • 3 large fresh tomatoes (plum or Roma), chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Oils & Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn

Cheese & Seasoning

  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving one cup of pasta water to use in the sauce if needed.
  2. Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and crumble it into the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the cooked sausage. Cook until softened and fragrant. Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes until tender but still slightly firm.
  4. Add Tomatoes: Mix in the chopped fresh tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down, creating a chunky and vibrant sauce. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine and Finish: Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat the pasta in the sauce. Gradually pour in reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and achieve a silky consistency. Stir in fresh basil leaves and remove the skillet from heat.
  6. Serve with Parmesan: Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for a rich, cheesy finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for a sweeter and more flavorful sauce.
  • Do not overcook zucchini to maintain texture and prevent mushiness.
  • Reserve some pasta water to create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
  • Choose good-quality Italian sausage for authentic and rich flavor.
  • Finish the dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Rigatoni, Italian sausage, tomatoes, zucchini, pasta, quick dinner, Italian recipe, family-friendly, one-pan pasta

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/rigatoni-with-sausage-tomatoes-zucchini/