This Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy evenings. It features fresh zucchini and juicy tomatoes, making every bite feel like summer!
I love how quick this meal is to whip up. Just sautĂ© the veggies, toss in some pasta, and enjoy a bowl of happiness. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini for its fun shape that holds sauce well. You could swap it for spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. If you’re out, any light cooking oil will do, though it might change the taste a bit.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here! If you’ve got summer squash or yellow squash, those can be excellent substitutes too.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If they aren’t in season, use regular tomatoes chopped into small pieces. Canned diced tomatoes work in a pinch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is perfect. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a nice, salty alternative. Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan option.
How Do I Make Sure the Zucchini is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking zucchini properly keeps it tender without becoming mushy. Here are the steps to ensure perfect zucchini:
- Cut zucchini into even-sized rounds or half-moons for consistent cooking.
- Sauté on medium heat to prevent rapid cooking that turns them mushy.
- Cook them just until they start to soften—about 3-4 minutes. They should still be slightly crisp when you add the tomatoes.
This way, you’ll enjoy the lovely texture and flavor of zucchini in your dish!
Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces rotini or radiatori pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time, you’ll have a bright and tasty pasta dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, watching closely so it doesn’t burn—this will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Add the Zucchini:
Next, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini pieces begin to soften but still have a little crunch. This keeps the texture nice!
4. Incorporate the Tomatoes:
Now it’s time for the cherry tomatoes! Add them to the skillet along with the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cherry tomatoes start to blister and soften.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Reduce the heat to low and add your drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine it well and let it warm through for a minute or two. This helps the pasta soak up all those tasty flavors!
6. Add Finishing Touches:
Stir in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is nicely blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if you need.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your pasta right away while it’s warm! Top it with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lovely finish.
Enjoy your vibrant and easy tomato zucchini pasta!
FAQ About Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
How Can I Make This Pasta Dish Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the vegetables and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve, and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to keep it fresh.
