This easy tomato zucchini pasta is a light and fresh dish that’s perfect for any day. With juicy tomatoes and tender zucchini, it’s a colorful treat on your plate!
You can whip it up in no time, leaving you more time to relax. I often enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—because who doesn’t love a little cheesy goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using radiatori or rotini for a nice bite and sauce-hugging shape. If you want to keep it gluten-free, try spiralized zucchini or gluten-free pasta alternatives.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor, but you can use any vegetable oil if needed. For a different taste, try avocado oil.
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes work well. Use what’s fresh and in season for the best flavor.
Zucchini: You can swap zucchini with yellow squash or even bell peppers for a different texture and taste. Both options bring color and nutrition!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Get Perfectly Blistered Tomatoes?
Blistering tomatoes brings out their sweetness and adds depth to the dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and give your garlic a quick sauté before you add the tomatoes.
- Cook the tomatoes on medium heat without stirring too frequently. This helps create those lovely caramelized spots!
- Keep an eye on them for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and bursting.
Don’t rush this step; good blistered tomatoes make all the difference in flavor!
Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz radiatori or rotini pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy pasta dish will take about 20 minutes total, which includes roughly 10 minutes for preparation and cooking the pasta, and another 10 minutes for sautéing the veggies and bringing everything together. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but still firm). When done, drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
2. Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of spice, the red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Veggies:
Now toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced zucchini. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes begin to blister and the zucchini becomes tender. This will bring out wonderful flavors, so keep an eye on them!
4. Season and Combine:
Once the veggies are cooked, season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
5. Finish Up:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, making sure everything is mixed well.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious tomato zucchini pasta immediately! Top with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this bright, flavorful dish that comes together so quickly!
This pasta is not just simple to make; it’s also a lovely way to enjoy fresh ingredients! 🍅🥒
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute any pasta you prefer, such as penne, farfalle, or even whole wheat options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Zucchini?
No problem! You can use other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or snap peas. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they become tender.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead! Cook the pasta and veggies separately, then toss them together right before serving to maintain freshness. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out.
