Zesty One-Pot Sausage Primavera
If you're searching for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that’s packed with fresh ingredients, look no further than this Zesty One-Pot Sausage Primavera! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines hearty chicken sausages, vibrant veggies, and tender pasta in a light and zesty sauce. Even better? It’s all made in one pot, minimizing cleanup without compromising on flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these pantry staples on hand—olive oil, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese—making this a great last-minute dinner idea.
- Quick Prep Time: With a little chopping and slicing, you’ll have this dish ready in about 30 minutes.
- Balanced Meal: Protein from the chicken sausages, carbs from the pasta, and nutrients from fresh zucchini and tomatoes create a wholesome, satisfying dish.
- One-Pot Magic: Everything cooks in a single pot, saving you time on dishes and letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Ingredients:
1 tsp olive oil
12 oz Italian-style chicken sausages, sliced
1 cup diced onion
½ tsp salt
2 tsp minced garlic
¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
4 cups chicken broth
8 oz Radiatore pasta (or any small pasta)
2 cups chopped zucchini2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 cup halved grape tomatoes
⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
Method:
- Sear the Chicken Sausages
Start by heating a teaspoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced Italian-style chicken sausages and cook until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. This step caramelizes the sausages, adding depth to the dish. Remove them from the pot and set aside. - Build Your Flavor Base
In the same pot, sauté diced onion, salt, and garlic until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. For a little heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes and cook for another minute. This aromatic base sets the tone for the dish. - Cook the Pasta
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Stir in 8 ounces of Radiatore pasta (or your favorite small pasta). Let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. - Add Fresh Veggies
Toss in the chopped zucchini and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender. The zucchini adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor and a pop of color. - Bring It All Together
Stir in the lemon juice, half of the Parmesan cheese, grape tomatoes, and the browned chicken sausages. Let everything cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly and the flavors to meld. - Finish with Freshness
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the chopped basil for a burst of herbaceous flavor. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.
This dish is delightful on its own, but you can pair it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a more elaborate meal. For a touch of indulgence, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil or sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper.
The combination of zesty chicken sausages, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced dish that’s both comforting and light. Lemon juice and basil bring brightness, while Parmesan cheese ties everything together with its rich, savory notes.
This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even meal prep. Give it a try, and let the vibrant flavors transport you to the Italian countryside—without leaving your kitchen!
