This Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a tasty way to enjoy fresh veggies! With juicy tomatoes and tender zucchini, it’s a colorful dish that’s light and bright.
I love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for busy nights! Just toss everything together and enjoy a bowl of sunshine in no time. 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend rotini for its ability to hold onto the sauce, but you can swap it for any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini lends a great crunch! If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash works well, or you could even use bell peppers for a different flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use regular tomatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces. Just adjust the cooking time so they soften nicely.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for a bold taste. In a pinch, garlic powder can substitute; use about 1/4 teaspoon for a milder flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a nice richness. If you want a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Can I Perfectly Cook the Pasta?
Cooking pasta correctly is key to getting the best texture. Here are my tips:
- Use plenty of salted water—about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water. It should taste a little like the sea.
- Add the pasta only when the water is at a rolling boil to prevent stickiness.
- Check for al dente doneness a minute or two before the package suggests. It should be firm to the bite but not crunchy.
- Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining! It’s great to add back to the sauce if needed for creaminess.
Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare! In just a few minutes, you’ll have a delicious pasta meal ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is essential for flavoring your pasta! Cook the rotini according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard when you bite into it. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
3. Add the Zucchini:
Next, toss in the sliced zucchini into the skillet. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften a bit, but still have some crunch left.
4. Mix in Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Now it’s time for the star of the dish! Add the halved cherry tomatoes and the dried oregano to the skillet. Let everything cook together for another 4–5 minutes. The tomatoes will start to soften and release their juices, creating a lovely sauce.
5. Combine it All:
Season your veggies with salt, pepper, and, if you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Then, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the flavors.
6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and a fresh taste! If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for additional flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is ready to enjoy! Serve it warm and relish this colorful and delicious meal.
Dig in and enjoy this delightful dish!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the firmness of the veggies.
What If I Don’t Have Cherry Tomatoes?
No worries! You can use any type of tomatoes that you have on hand. Just chop them into small pieces, and remember they may need a little extra time to cook down and soften.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help bring back the dish’s moisture!
Can I Make This Pasta Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply choose a gluten-free pasta alternative, such as chickpea or brown rice pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results!
