Description
The “Sausage and Squash Cavatelli Delight” is a flavorful and heartwarming dish that masterfully combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the light freshness of zucchini and yellow squash. This recipe brings a comforting taste of Italy right into your home kitchen, creating a perfect meal that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing with its vibrant mix of vegetables and herbs. Ideal for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish is bound to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 lb. Italian Sausage (3-4 sausage links)
- 1 large shallot, halved and sliced
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
- 1 large yellow squash, sliced
- 2 plum tomatoes, halved and sliced (optional)
- 1 box cavatelli pasta
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (after cooking pasta)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by placing 1 tsp of olive oil in a large shallow sauté pan. As the oil heats up, remove the sausage from its casings to prepare for browning.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Brown the sausage in the pan until fully cooked. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tsp of olive oil to the same pan. Add the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and shallots and cook over medium-high heat until they are soft and lightly browned, about 5-8 minutes. Introduce the tomatoes toward the end of the cooking process to just warm through.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the vegetables are cooking, boil water in a separate pot for the pasta. Salt the water generously before adding the cavatelli. Cook according to the package directions, and be sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
In a large bowl, mix the sausage, cooked vegetables, and drained pasta. Gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve a lightly sauced consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe serves 4 people and typically takes about 30 minutes for preparation and cooking.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional olive oil to keep the pasta moist. Microwave reheating is also an option, though stovetop warming is recommended for best results.
Conclusion
The Sausage and Squash Cavatelli Delight is a versatile and delicious meal that marries the heartiness of Italian sausage with the light, nutritious profile of fresh vegetables. Whether served on a chilly winter evening or as part of a festive gathering, this dish offers a comforting, satisfying dining experience with an Italian flair. Its easy preparation and straightforward ingredients list make it an accessible option for any home cook looking for a new staple to add to their repertoire.
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Sausage and Squash Cavatelli Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
The “Sausage and Squash Cavatelli Delight” is a flavorful and heartwarming dish that masterfully combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the light freshness of zucchini and yellow squash. This recipe brings a comforting taste of Italy right into your home kitchen, creating a perfect meal that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing with its vibrant mix of vegetables and herbs. Ideal for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish is bound to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 lb. Italian Sausage (3–4 sausage links)
- 1 large shallot, halved and sliced
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
- 1 large yellow squash, sliced
- 2 plum tomatoes, halved and sliced (optional)
- 1 box cavatelli pasta
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (after cooking pasta)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare Ingredients Start by placing 1 tsp of olive oil in a large shallow sauté pan. As the oil heats up, remove the sausage from its casings to prepare for browning.
- Step 2: Cook the Sausage Brown the sausage in the pan until fully cooked. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté Vegetables Add the remaining 1 tsp of olive oil to the same pan. Add the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and shallots and cook over medium-high heat until they are soft and lightly browned, about 5-8 minutes. Introduce the tomatoes toward the end of the cooking process to just warm through.
- Step 4: Cook the Pasta While the vegetables are cooking, boil water in a separate pot for the pasta. Salt the water generously before adding the cavatelli. Cook according to the package directions, and be sure to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Step 5: Combine and Serve In a large bowl, mix the sausage, cooked vegetables, and drained pasta. Gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve a lightly sauced consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes