Looking for a dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer while delivering a hearty Italian twist? Look no further than our delectable Sausage Pasta with Summer Vegetables! This vibrant recipe combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the freshness of seasonal veggies, all tossed together with al dente penne pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your family and friends. Get ready to savor every bite and make this your go-to summer favorite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add penne pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced Italian sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking into smaller pieces until browned and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Introduce sliced zucchini and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
- Drain cooked pasta and add directly to the skillet with sausage and vegetables. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, ensuring an even distribution of sausage, vegetables, and pasta.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sausage: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality Italian sausage. You can use sweet or spicy varieties depending on your heat preference.
- Don't Overcook the Vegetables: To maintain their vibrant color and crunch, sauté the zucchini and bell pepper just until tender. This will enhance the freshness of the dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Garnish with fresh basil just before serving to elevate the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can transform a good dish into an unforgettable one!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix in other seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as asparagus or spinach, to make this dish even more colorful and nutritious.
- Serve with a Side: Pair this dish with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 75mg
