Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini is a delightful dish that combines hearty pasta with savory sausage and fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a burst of flavors in every bite. The best part? It’s simple to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal without the heaviness of traditional baked pasta dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausage, fresh zucchini, and juicy tomatoes creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings to the rigatoni.
• Versatile: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, such as using different types of sausage or adding more vegetables.
• Healthier Comfort Food: Enjoy the comforting taste of pasta while keeping it light and nutritious with fresh veggies.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit at family gatherings or dinner parties, impressing guests with its vibrant colors and rich flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wide skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the rigatoni pasta to perfection quickly.
• Wide skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing ingredients evenly and allows for easy stirring.
• Wooden spoon: Great for breaking up the sausage while cooking without scratching your cookware.
• Colander: Perfect for draining pasta while retaining some cooking water for the sauce.

Ingredients

For the 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)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy will work)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups grape tomatoes
• 1 cup white apple vinegar or chicken broth
• 2 small zucchini (diced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 1/2 cup fresh basil (chopped)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

Step 1: Boil Water

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

Add oil to a large, wide pot and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
* Add in the onion and crushed red pepper flakes; cook until the onion is very soft (about 10 minutes).
* Add in the sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned with no pink color remaining.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Add in the garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Zucchini

Add in the tomatoes along with apple vinegar (or stock), seasoning with salt and pepper.
* Cook while stirring occasionally until tomatoes begin to burst (about 10 minutes).
* Gently press any unburst tomatoes with a wooden spoon.
* Stir in diced zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Rigatoni

While preparing the sauce, add the rigatoni into boiling water. Cook for 9 to 10 minutes or until al dente.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Drain the pasta but reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Toss the drained rigatoni into the pot with your sauce.
* Mix well to combine; add reserved cooking water if needed.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Remove from heat; divide among serving bowls. Top each bowl generously with chopped basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving hot!

Enjoy this delightful Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini as your next family favorite!

How to Serve Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

Serving Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the rigatoni.

Add Garlic Bread

• Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery garlic breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. They add a delightful crunch to your meal.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus can complement the pasta and add extra nutrients.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Cheese Variations: Enhance the dish by offering different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle on their servings.

Serve with Wine

• Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or a crisp white wine pairs beautifully with this hearty pasta dish, enhancing its flavors.

How to Perfect Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

To make your Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding a splash of red wine while cooking the sausage for an extra depth of flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh zucchini and ripe tomatoes for the best taste. They enhance both flavor and nutrition in your dish.
• Proper Pasta Cooking: Ensure you cook the rigatoni until al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta cooking water before draining. It helps adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
• Garnish Wisely: Finish with fresh basil or parsley just before serving to add brightness and freshness to each plate.

Best Side Dishes for Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

Complementing your rigatoni meal with sides can create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some excellent side dish options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing adds crunch and tanginess.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic provide a flavorful appetizer.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a fun finger food option.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender bring a seasonal touch.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety before the main course.
6. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic make for a comforting side that balances the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using the wrong pasta shape: While rigatoni is ideal for this recipe, other tubular shapes work too. Avoid flat pasta like spaghetti, as it won’t hold the sauce well.
• Overcooking the sausage: Cooking sausage until it’s dry can ruin the flavor. Make sure to cook it just until browned and no longer pink.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt or under-seasoning can lead to bland pasta. Taste as you go, and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Ignoring the pasta cooking time: Overcooking rigatoni can lead to mushy pasta. Follow package instructions for al dente cooking.
• Forgetting to reserve pasta water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta. Always reserve some before draining.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Divide into individual portions for easy meal prep.

Reheating Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different vegetables in Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini?

You can definitely customize this recipe! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or any other seasonal veggies you enjoy.

How do I make Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini healthier?

Consider using turkey sausage or chicken sausage as lighter alternatives. You can also add more zucchini or use whole wheat rigatoni for added fiber.

What type of cheese is best for topping Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is ideal because it melts beautifully and adds great flavor. You could also try pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the pasta. Combine them just before serving for best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini offers a delightful blend of flavors that are both satisfying and healthy. This versatile dish allows for many customizations based on your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Try it out today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini is a flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines tender rigatoni with savory Italian sausage, fresh zucchini, and juicy tomatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, delivering a satisfying meal without the heaviness of traditional baked pasta. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering. Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow for ingredient substitutions based on what you have in your pantry. Enjoy a delicious blend of comfort food that keeps things light and healthy!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion
• 5 cloves garlic
• 2 cups grape tomatoes
• 2 small zucchini
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup white apple vinegar or chicken broth
• Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook rigatoni until al dente.
2. In a wide skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté chopped onion and optional red pepper flakes until soft.
3. Add Italian sausage; cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
4. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook briefly until fragrant.
5. Add grape tomatoes and apple vinegar or broth; season with salt and pepper. Cook until tomatoes burst.
6. Mix in diced zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Drain the cooked rigatoni (reserve some pasta water) and combine with the sauce.
8. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 60mg