This easy tomato zucchini pasta is a bright and fresh dish! With juicy tomatoes and tender zucchini, it brings summer vibes to your table. It’s tasty and colorful, perfect for any meal!
Honestly, I love how quick it is to whip up! Just toss everything in a pan, and in no time, you’re twirling those noodles. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something simple and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using curly rotini as it holds sauces nicely. If you don’t have this, short pasta like penne or fusilli works great too. Whole wheat pasta is another healthy option if you prefer that.
Zucchini: This vegetable adds crunch and color. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash or bell peppers can be good substitutes for similar textures.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring sweetness and juiciness to the dish. If out of season, try canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat, perfect for sautéing. If you want a lighter option, use vegetable broth to sauté the vegetables instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Do I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic can be tricky because it cooks quickly and burns easily. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always start with a preheated pan and add oil before the garlic. This not only helps the garlic cook evenly but also prevents it from burning.
- Cook garlic on medium heat to control the temperature. Stir it constantly for even cooking.
- Keep it cooking for only about a minute or until it’s golden. If it starts to turn brown, lower the heat or remove it immediately.
Following these tips will ensure your garlic adds lovely flavor to your dish without any bitterness!
Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz curly rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and cook the pasta, plus another 10 minutes to sauté the veggies and combine everything. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a pinch of salt, then toss in the curly rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Just keep an eye on it so that it doesn’t burn!
3. Add the Zucchini
Next, add the zucchini pieces into the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes or until they start to soften a bit. They should still have a little crunch!
4. Toss in the Cherry Tomatoes
Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes. The tomatoes should soften and release some of their juices.
5. Combine with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to combine, letting it all warm through. You want every noodle to soak in that lovely tomato and zucchini flavor!
6. Final Touches
Once everything is nice and heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley and, if you like, some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Dish out your beautiful and colorful tomato zucchini pasta onto plates and enjoy immediately. You’ve made a delightful meal that’s both tasty and visually appealing!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While curly rotini is great for holding sauce, feel free to use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make great additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic or mix them in after adding the pasta for a heartier meal.
