This Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a bright and tasty dish made with fresh tomatoes and tender zucchini. It’s a perfect meal when you want something light and simple!
You’ll love how quickly it comes together—just sauté the veggies, toss them with pasta, and voilà! I often add a sprinkle of cheese on top for some extra yum. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: While rotini is great for catching the sauce, feel free to swap it with penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta works well too, and you can choose whole wheat for extra fiber.
Zucchini: If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a good alternative. They have a similar texture and mild flavor, perfect for this dish.
Cherry Tomatoes: Any fresh tomatoes can work. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes are good substitutes; just chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Olive Oil: Although olive oil is my go-to, avocado oil or even butter can work in a pinch if you want a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan or want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that fits vegan diets.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the pasta just right is crucial to a great dish. Follow these simple steps:
- Start with a big pot of salted water; this helps the pasta absorb flavor.
- Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the package for cooking times, but taste a piece a minute or two early to see if it’s done. You want it al dente!
- Once cooked, drain the pasta, but don’t rinse it! Rinsing washes away the starch that helps the sauce stick.
Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have a tasty meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When finished, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Add Zucchini:
Next, toss in the sliced zucchini rounds. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften and get a little color.
4. Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to blister and soften.
5. Season the Vegetables:
Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste over the veggies, ensuring they are well-seasoned and flavorful.
6. Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
Transfer the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together to combine and heat through, allowing the pasta to soak up those delicious flavors.
7. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm in bowls, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this vibrant and fresh dish!
Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or herbs. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results!
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No worries! Yellow squash makes a great alternative. You could also use bell peppers or even spinach for some leafy greens. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can elevate this dish. If adding meat, cook it separately and mix it in during the last step to combine flavors.
