Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe

Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I usually go for spaghetti, but you can use any pasta you like! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works just as well. Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli are also great alternatives.

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this dish, but if it’s out of season, yellow squash makes a lovely substitute! Spiralized veggies like carrots or bell peppers can add extra color.

Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, but you can use canned tomatoes if fresh are not available. Just make sure to drain them well before adding to the sauce. I’ve also had good results with plum tomatoes!

Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan adds great flavor, you could use pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Both give a nice cheesy taste!

How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right?

Cooking zucchini just enough is crucial! Overcooked zucchini can become mushy, so here’s how to keep it tender yet crisp:

• Slice the zucchini into ribbons or half-moons for quick cooking; it helps them cook evenly.
• Only add them to the pan after the tomatoes have released their juices. This way, they’ll cook through while maintaining some crunch.
• Keep the heat at medium so they cook without browning too fast.
• Cook just until they’re bright green and slightly softened—about 3-4 minutes should do!

Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pasta:

• 8 ounces (225g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite type)

Vegetables:

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into ribbons or half-moons
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Other Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and around 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Remember to save about 1/2 cup of that pasta water before you drain it.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and, if you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes. Sauté these together for about 1 minute, just until the garlic smells wonderful (but be careful not to let it brown!).

3. Make the Tomato Sauce:

Now toss in the cherry tomatoes (or your chopped large tomatoes). Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and start to release their juices. This will be the base of your fresh sauce!

4. Add the Zucchini:

Next, stir in those lovely zucchini ribbons. Cook them for another 3-4 minutes until they become just tender but still bright green. You want them to retain a bit of crunch!

5. Combine Everything:

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with your cooked veggies. Gently toss everything together, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if you find the sauce too thick. This will help everything stick together.

6. Season and Stir in Basil:

Season your pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Toss in the chopped fresh basil for that burst of flavor—mix everything till it’s well combined.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta immediately! For an added touch, garnish with extra basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you wish. Enjoy your colorful and healthy meal!

Bon appétit! 🍽️

FAQ for Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender but not overcooked.

What Type of Pasta Should I Use?

You can use any pasta shape you like! Spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free options work well. Just check the cooking times on the package and adjust based on your preference.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can I Make This Dish Vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Enjoy your plant-based twist!