Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini
Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini is a comforting pasta dish that combines savory Italian sausage, fresh zucchini, and juicy tomatoes in a rich sauce. This delightful recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté sliced Italian sausage until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and diced zucchini; cook until zucchini softens (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in canned tomatoes with juice; season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency (2-3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: - Feel free to swap zucchini for bell peppers or spinach for a different flavor profile. - For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.