Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Caramelized Zucchini and Pasta with Chicken Sausage and Basil Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 66 reviews

This Caramelized Zucchini and Pasta recipe combines tender zucchini slices caramelized to golden perfection with savory chicken or turkey sausage, creating a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish. Enhanced with lemon zest, garlic, shallots, and rich Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, this meal balances freshness and creaminess in every bite.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Zucchini and Breadcrumbs

  • 4 Tbsp. DeLallo Private Reserve Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, divided
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon, divided
  • 1 lb. zucchini, thinly sliced crosswise

For the Pasta and Sausage

  • 12 oz. DeLallo Shellbows Pasta
  • 1 large shallot, diced (about 3/4 cup)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 12 oz. raw chicken or turkey sausage (from 3 links), casings removed

For the Finish

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves
  • Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Breadcrumbs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and stir in half of the lemon zest. Set aside.
  2. Caramelize the Zucchini: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced zucchini in an even layer and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.
  3. Cook the Sausage and Aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the diced shallot until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the sausage meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the DeLallo Shellbows pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  5. Combine the Ingredients: To the skillet with sausage and aromatics, add the cooked pasta, caramelized zucchini, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water in small amounts as needed to loosen the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and basil leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and remaining lemon zest.
  6. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle the toasted lemon-scented breadcrumbs over the top for added texture and flavor. Serve warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute turkey sausage for chicken sausage if preferred.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute sausage with plant-based protein or mushrooms.
  • To reduce calories, use half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative instead of heavy cream.
  • Make sure to toast the breadcrumbs well for a crunchy texture and enhanced flavor.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/caramelized-zucchini-and-pasta-with-chicken-sausage-and-basil-recipe/