This Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a colorful and tasty dish! With fresh zucchini and ripe tomatoes, it’s quick to whip up and perfect for busy evenings.
I love how light and fresh this pasta feels. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! Serve it warm with a sprinkle of cheese, and you’ve got a winner! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its shape holds the sauce well. However, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works great too. If you’re gluten-free, you can easily swap it out for chickpea or gluten-free pasta.
Zucchini: These are key for adding texture and nutrition. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash makes a nice substitute. You could even add bell peppers for extra color and flavor!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness to the dish. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes—a great pantry option. Just drain them to avoid excess moisture.
Olive Oil: This adds richness. You could replace it with avocado oil if you prefer a different flavor or for higher smoke points. For a lighter option, use vegetable broth to sauté instead.
How Do You Get the Zucchini Just Right?
Cooking zucchini perfectly is all about timing. You want it tender but still crisp. Here’s how:
- Sauté the zucchini in medium heat oil for just 3-4 minutes.
- Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to be mushy. It should brighten in color and remain slightly firm.
- If you like it a little more caramelized, you can cook it a bit longer, just pay attention to prevent burning!
This easy cooking method will really enhance the zucchini’s natural flavor while keeping it appealing in the dish!
How to Make Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
For The Vegetables:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 20 minutes to prepare! You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 10 minutes sautéing the veggies. Quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that lovely garlic aroma!
3. Add the Zucchini:
Next, toss in the sliced zucchini. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be slightly tender but still crisp. Watch them closely so they don’t get too soft!
4. Stir in the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add those bright cherry tomatoes! Stir them in and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes. They should soften and start to release their juicy goodness!
5. Combine Everything:
Once the tomatoes are ready, stir in the cooked pasta. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a bit of heat. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with those yummy sautéed veggies and flavors.
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of flavor. Serve your pasta warm and feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you want that extra yum factor!
Enjoy this quick and delightful Tomato Zucchini Pasta as a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s full of fresh flavors and only takes a little bit of time to make. Happy cooking!
FAQs about Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up! Bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms can be great additions or substitutes for zucchini and tomatoes. Just adjust the cooking time for any harder vegetables to ensure they’re tender when serving.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
You can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a fantastic substitute for that cheesy flavor!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water if it seems a bit dry.
What Pasta Variations Work Best?
While rotini is great for holding the sauce, you can use any short pasta like penne, farfalle, or fusilli. For a gluten-free version, try chickpea or brown rice pasta—just adjust the cooking time as needed!
