This Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a bright and tasty dish full of fresh veggies! It’s quick to make, featuring juicy tomatoes, tender zucchini, and your favorite pasta for a delightful meal.
You’ll love how it comes together in no time, perfect for busy nights! I often sprinkle some cheese on top, because who can resist a little cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This type of pasta is great for holding onto the sauce. If you prefer gluten-free, use brown rice or quinoa pasta. Spaghetti or penne works well too!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a nice sweetness to the dish. If they’re not available, substitute with regular tomatoes, just chop them into smaller pieces. Canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch as well.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds crunch. If you need a substitute, yellow squash works just as well. You could also try other veggies like bell peppers or spinach for a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really enhances flavor. If you’re out, you can use garlic powder (1/4 tsp per clove) but fresh is always best!
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds great flavor. For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can be a nice alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta and Keep it Perfect?
Cooking pasta perfectly can be easily achieved with a few simple steps. Here’s how to ensure it turns out just right:
- Use plenty of water: For every 8 oz of pasta, use around 4-6 quarts of water; this helps to prevent sticking.
- Add salt: It should taste like the sea! This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself.
- Check the time: Cook one minute less than the package suggests for a perfect al dente texture.
- Save water: Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining. It helps adjust consistency in your sauce later on.
Enjoy whipping up this Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta with these tips and tricks! It’s simple, quick, and oh-so-delicious.
Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, diced into small rounds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 15 minutes to cook. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a fresh and flavorful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander but make sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warmed up, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic gently for about 30 seconds until it starts to smell fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, toss the halved cherry tomatoes and diced zucchini into the skillet. Stir them well and let everything cook together for about 5-7 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften and the zucchini to become tender but still retain its bright color.
4. Season It:
Give the vegetables a sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Mix everything well to infuse the flavors.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Now, add your cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta gets evenly coated with the veggies and oil. If it seems a bit dry, pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to help loosen it up.
6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley. This adds a lovely freshness to the dish.
7. Serve:
Plate up your Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta while it’s hot. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
With its vibrant colors and wonderful taste, this Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a fantastic dish for any day of the week!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure it’s cooked al dente.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, yellow squash or bell peppers make great substitutes. You could also use spinach or kale for a leafy option—just add them toward the end to avoid overcooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to bring back its moisture.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the veggies for a hearty meal.
