This Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a colorful and fresh dish that combines juicy tomatoes and tender zucchini with your favorite pasta. It’s quick to make and bursting with flavor!
You can even get the kids involved, because who doesn’t love playing with noodles? I like to top mine with a sprinkle of cheese for an extra yum! It’s a go-to when I need a meal in a hurry.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Optional here, but rotini holds the sauce well. You can use any short pasta you have, like penne or fusilli. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works fine.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds great texture. If you don’t have zucchini, yellow squash or even chopped bell peppers can be good substitutes.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness shines in this dish. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes are a great alternative. Just be sure to drain them well before adding.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for flavor, but you can use any vegetable oil like canola or grapeseed oil if needed. For a richer taste, try adding a bit of butter.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice finish, but feel free to use any cheese you like. Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese option can be great alternatives for topping.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Vegetables?
Getting the zucchini and tomatoes just right can take a bit of practice. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
- For zucchini, slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate, and aim for slightly browned edges for a nice texture.
- When adding cherry tomatoes, allow them some time to soften; they should burst and create a light sauce for the pasta.
If you’re unsure, you can always taste as you go! The goal is tender veggies that still have a bit of bite and flavor.
Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need around 10 minutes for chopping and cooking the ingredients, plus another 10 minutes for boiling the pasta and combining everything. Quick and wholesome!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to help adjust the sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Next, add the chopped zucchini into the skillet. Sauté the zucchini for 4-5 minutes until it is tender and starts to get a nice, slightly browned color. This will enhance the flavor and texture!
4. Add the Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for another 3-4 minutes until they soften and begin to release their juices. This will create a lovely freshness in the dish.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together carefully to combine. If the mixture looks a bit dry, you can add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches the desired consistency!
6. Season and Add Parsley:
Now, season the pasta with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Finally, stir in the freshly chopped parsley for that great flavor and color.
7. Serve with Cheese:
If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for that extra cheesy goodness! You can either mix it in or allow everyone to top their own servings.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta warm and enjoy this colorful, vibrant dish that’s as tasty as it is pretty. Perfect for a family dinner or a quick meal for yourself!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While rotini works well, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Even long pasta like spaghetti is a good option if that’s what you have on hand!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté them until they’re tender, just like the zucchini.
