NONNA’S ZUCCHINI & SAUSAGE PASTA
This recipe for Penne with Zucchini and Sausage is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
With simple ingredients such as fresh zucchini, flavorful sausage, garlic and a pinch of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, this dish provides a hearty and balanced meal in less than 30 minutes.
Whether you are in the mood for a comforting pasta dish or need an idea for a family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Plus, it is customizable and can be easily adapted to your taste!
SERVINGS:4
INGREDIENTS:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 10 oz fresh Italian sausage (preferably mild, without fennel seeds)
- 1 garlic clove (optional)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
METHOD:
Prepare the ingredients:
Wash zucchini and slice into rounds or half moons (not too thin, to maintain texture).
Remove the casing from the sausage and break it up with your hands or a fork.
If using garlic, lightly crush the clove to let it release its flavor.
Cook the zucchini:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. If using garlic, add it and let it brown slightly, then remove it if you prefer a milder garlic flavor.
Add the sliced zucchini and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, until they turn golden brown but still have some texture.
Season with salt and pepper, then set the zucchini aside.
Cook the sausage:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed and cook the crumbled sausage over medium-high heat. Allow it to brown and cook, about 8 to 10 minutes. If desired, deglaze the pan with white wine, allowing it to evaporate.
Combine the ingredients:
Once the sausage is fully cooked, add the zucchini to the skillet. Stir well to mix everything together and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Cook the pasta:
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain.
Assemble the dish:
Add the cooked penne to the pan with the sausage and zucchini. Stir everything over medium heat for a minute or two, adding a little of the pasta cooking water to help bind the sauce.
Serve:
Serve the penne hot and sprinkle with grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese if desired.
