Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish featuring savory sausage, fresh tomatoes, and zucchini.

Ingredients:

  • Pasta:
    • 3/4 lb rigatoni pasta
  • For the Sauce:
    • 3 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
    • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
    • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy will work)
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 large zucchini, diced
    • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or use fresh tomatoes, chopped)
    • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions:

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
    • Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    • If using, add the crushed red pepper flakes and stir for about 30 seconds.
  3. Cook the Sausage:
    • Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the Zucchini and Tomatoes:
    • Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.
    • Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
    • Let the mixture cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
    • Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs to be thinned out.
    • Stir in the fresh basil leaves, if using, and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve the rigatoni hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini!