Colorful Weeknight Pasta Dish (Printable Format)

A simple, colorful pasta dish featuring sliced chicken sausages, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes tossed with your favorite pasta and fresh basil.

# What You'll Gather:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
02 - 4 chicken sausages, sliced (Italian-flavored or your preferred type)
03 - 2 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
05 - 1 pint (10 oz) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
10 - Salt and pepper, to taste

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
04 - Return the cooked chicken sausages to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired, and serve warm.

# Important Tips:

01 - Veggie Boost: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
02 - Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or feta for a twist.
03 - Make Ahead: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh.
04 - You can use any type of pre-cooked chicken sausage in this recipe.

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