Description
This Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines savory Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, it offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 3/4 lb rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups grape tomatoes
- 1 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 2 small zucchini, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
To Serve
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for later use.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Aromatics and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the tomato paste, stirring to coat the sausage and onions. Add the grape tomatoes and white wine (or chicken broth), bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Zucchini and Season: Stir in the diced zucchini, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening. Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among bowls and top generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- White wine can be replaced with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic alternative.
- Reserve pasta water carefully to adjust the sauce consistency without thinning the flavors.
- Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal note; if unavailable, substitute with fresh parsley or omit.
