Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of Tomato Zucchini Pasta that instantly transports you to sun-drenched Italian kitchens. Picture this: tender pasta enveloped in a vibrant tapestry of sautéed zucchini and exploding grape tomatoes, all kissed with the aromatic allure of garlic. With each bite, you experience a delightful dance of flavors, bright and fresh. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

We’ve all had those days when the thought of organizing a complicated dinner is as appealing as a root canal. Luckily, this Tomato Zucchini Pasta is ready in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy nights. The rich colors, delightful aromas, and simple ingredients evoke memories of childhood dinners, where laughter filled the air, and the meal was a celebration all on its own. Trust me when I say that your taste buds are in for a treat!

Ingredients for Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Tomato Zucchini Pasta:

7 oz short pasta – Choose penne, fusilli, or farfalle for the best texture.

2 lbs zucchini – Select firm, unblemished zucchinis for a crisp bite.

1 lb grape or cherry tomatoes – Opt for ripe ones for the sweetest flavor; cutting them in halves allows their juices to meld beautifully.

3 tbsp olive oil – Use extra virgin for the finest taste and health benefits.

6 garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic punch to the dish.

1/3 cup Parmesan cheese – Grated for perfect melting and flavor enhancement.

1 cup fresh parsley or 1/2 cup basil – Fresh herbs bring a burst of color and flavor; choose based on your preference.

1 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your dish.

Ground black pepper – Add to your taste for a little kick.

How to Make Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Tomato Zucchini Pasta:

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta
Begin by bringing salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add your short pasta and cook as per the package instructions, but undercook it by 2-3 minutes to retain that perfect al dente texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large ceramic non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Swirl in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add the bite-sized zucchini. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are slightly golden. Once done, transfer the zucchini to a bowl and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes and Garlic
Return the skillet to the heat, adding another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the halved grape or cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the tomatoes start to soften and burst, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Combine Everything
Once the tomatoes and garlic are beautifully aromatic and tender, turn off the heat. Add the cooked pasta, sautéed zucchini, remaining tablespoon of olive oil, salt, ground black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, and your choice of parsley or basil. Toss everything together gently until well combined and season to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your Tomato Zucchini Pasta to serving plates, and if you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle more of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for that restaurant-quality finish. Every bite promises fresh flavors and comfort.

Now, you have a delightful Tomato Zucchini Pasta dish ready to enchant your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. Enjoy!

Perfecting Tomato Zucchini Pasta Cooking Process

To get the best Tomato Zucchini Pasta results, start by cooking your pasta. While it cooks, sauté the zucchini until tender, then add the tomatoes and garlic for a quick stir-fry. Combine everything at the end for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch to Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can also try different herbs such as basil or oregano. For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or beans to the mix.

Storing & Reheating Tomato Zucchini Pasta

If you have leftovers, store the Tomato Zucchini Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or microwave until heated through to preserve its flavors.

Cooking up a batch of this Tomato Zucchini Pasta always reminds me of my grandmother. She’d whip up something similar whenever we visited, filling the kitchen with warmth and laughter.

FAQs About Tomato Zucchini Pasta

What is Tomato Zucchini Pasta?

Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a delightful, quick dish that combines short pasta with vibrant zucchini and juicy tomatoes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, taking just about 20 minutes to prepare. The sauce is simple yet bursting with flavor thanks to fresh ingredients like garlic and basil. This meal is not only easy to make but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste.

How can I customize my Tomato Zucchini Pasta?

Customizing your Tomato Zucchini Pasta is as easy as a walk in the park. You can swap out vegetables based on what you have—bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms work wonderfully. Additionally, herbs like oregano or thyme can add a unique twist. For a heartier dish, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a scoop of your favorite beans. The options are endless, ensuring you’ll never get bored!

Can I make Tomato Zucchini Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Tomato Zucchini Pasta ahead of time. It’s an excellent dish for meal prep. Simply cook everything as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave will yield delicious results. Just keep an eye to avoid overcooking the pasta during reheating.

What are the nutritional benefits of Tomato Zucchini Pasta?

Tomato Zucchini Pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Zucchini is low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes provide a good dose of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is linked to various health benefits. Whole grain pasta options can add fiber and protein, making this dish a balanced choice. It’s a delightful way to meet your daily veggie intake while enjoying a satisfying meal.

Conclusion for Tomato Zucchini Pasta

In conclusion, Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a versatile and quick dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation, it stands out as a go-to recipe for busy cooks. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences, making it a meal you can love every time. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated, Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a delicious way to embrace wholesome cooking in under 20 minutes.

Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe Ready in 20 Minutes

A quick and delicious Tomato Zucchini Pasta recipe that combines fresh veggies and pasta in under 20 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 369

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Pasta and Vegetables

• 7 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
• 2 lbs zucchini, chopped in bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, cut in halves
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup fresh parsley or 1/2 cup basil, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large ceramic non-stick skillet

Method

 

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta as per package instructions undercooking by 2-3 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
2. While pasta is cooking, preheat a large ceramic non-stick skillet on medium-high heat and swirl 1 tbsp of oil to coat. Add zucchini and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
3. Return skillet to the stove and swirl 1 tbsp of oil to coat, add tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring a few times.
4. Turn off heat and add cooked pasta and zucchini, remaining 1 tbsp of oil, salt, pepper, cheese, and parsley or basil; stir and serve. Adjust any seasonings to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 369kcalCarbohydrates: 51gProtein: 15gFat: 14gSodium: 752mgFiber: 4gSugar: 9g

Notes

Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. This dish is great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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