This Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that’s perfect for a quick meal. It combines fresh tomatoes and zucchini with pasta for a colorful feast!
I love how this recipe is not only quick but also makes me feel good about eating my veggies. It’s like a little garden party on my plate! 🥒🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini, but you can swap it for other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well if you have dietary needs.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are a must for this dish. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can work as substitutes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for canned tomatoes!
Zucchini: This round beauty adds a nice crunch. If you don’t have zucchini, yellow squash makes a great alternative. Even bell peppers or carrots can work well here!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is best for flavor, but if you’re out, you can use garlic powder—1/4 teaspoon should do the trick.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds richness, but if you want to skip it or go dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a nice cheesy flavor. Or try a sprinkle of your favorite vegan cheese!
How Do You Cook the Zucchini and Tomatoes Perfectly?
Cooking zucchini and tomatoes can be tricky; you want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start sautéing the garlic first, just until fragrant. This infuses the oil with flavor without burning the garlic.
- Add the cherry tomatoes next, as they take a little time to soften. Stir occasionally and let them release their juices.
- Once the tomatoes soften (about 3-4 minutes), toss in the zucchini. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is vibrant but still has a bit of crunch.
Remember to season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors as they cook. This balance makes all the difference!
Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds about 1/2 inch thick
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delightful meal that will have you enjoying a fresh pasta dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is bubbling, add your pasta (like rotini or fusilli). Cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente, meaning it has a little bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta well and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds. You should smell the wonderful aroma of garlic filling the kitchen—it’s heavenly!
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and zucchini rounds into the skillet. Stir them occasionally for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften and release their beautiful juices while keeping the zucchini crisp. It’s like a colorful vegetable party in your pan!
4. Seasoning Time:
Season your veggies with salt and freshly ground black pepper to make those flavors pop. Taste a small piece of zucchini and adjust the seasoning if needed!
5. Combine with Pasta:
Now, add the cooked pasta into the skillet with your sautéed veggies. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Let it cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes. This step helps all the flavors meld beautifully!
6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. If you like, add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Dish up your Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta immediately while it’s warm and inviting. Enjoy every bite of this fresh and vibrant meal!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini or fusilli with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or even bell peppers make great alternatives. Just slice them into similar-sized pieces and cook them using the same method!
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauté the vegetables in advance. Store everything separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving and add a splash of olive oil if needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
