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Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Tomato Zucchini Pasta

This quick and healthy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. Combining fresh zucchini, ripe cherry tomatoes, and your choice of pasta in a flavorful one-pan dish, it’s ready in under 30 minutes. Light, nourishing, and customizable, this vibrant pasta meal offers a wholesome balance of textures and flavors with minimal cleanup.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
  • Cherry Tomatoes – 2 cups, halved
  • Zucchini – 2 medium, sliced
  • Dry Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli) – 8 ounces
  • Fresh Basil – 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black Pepper – to taste
  • Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – 1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving one cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Zucchini: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for 4-5 minutes until they just start to soften but remain slightly firm.
  3. Cook the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the zucchini. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir and cook for 6-8 minutes until the tomatoes release their juices and a saucy mixture forms.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Stir in the chopped fresh basil to finish.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove the skillet from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with extra basil or a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh zucchini and cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t overcook the zucchini; keep it slightly firm to avoid mushiness.
  • Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce and pasta effectively.
  • Season gradually and taste to balance salt and spice perfectly.
  • Add fresh basil at the end to preserve its vibrant flavor.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian (can be made Vegan and Gluten-Free with substitutions)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Tomato Zucchini Pasta, Quick Pasta Recipe, Healthy Pasta, Weeknight Dinner, Vegetarian Pasta, One-Pan Pasta