Description
Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a fresh and vibrant dish that brings together tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zucchini in a light, flavorful garlic sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light weeknight dinner, and the combination of fresh vegetables with pasta creates a healthy, yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a delicious vegetarian option or simply want a tasty, vegetable-packed dish, this pasta is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften and release their juices.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the zucchini and tomatoes.
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together to combine.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help everything come together.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil, and toss until the pasta is evenly coated and the cheese is melted.
Step 4: Serve
- Divide the pasta among serving plates.
- Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor and texture.
- For a richer sauce, you can stir in a little cream or butter along with the Parmesan.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian