Pasta with Zucchini, Tomato, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
A quick and delicious Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes recipe featuring sautéed zucchini and garlic-kissed grape tomatoes tossed with al dente pasta, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 20 minutes, this vibrant and healthy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 7 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli or farfalle)
Vegetables
- 2 lbs zucchini (chopped in bite size pieces)
- 1 lb grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes (cut in halves)
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
Other Ingredients
- 3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
- 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)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions but reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes so the pasta is al dente, meaning cooked but still firm to the bite.
- Sauté Zucchini: While the pasta cooks, heat a large ceramic non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Swirl 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the pan. Add the chopped zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender but not mushy. Remove the zucchini and set aside in a bowl.
- Sauté Tomatoes and Garlic: Return the skillet to heat and add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the halved grape tomatoes and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Combine and Season: Turn off the heat. Add the cooked pasta and sautéed zucchini back into the skillet along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and ground black pepper. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley or basil until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful 20-minute meal.
Notes
- To keep the zucchini from becoming soggy, avoid overcrowding the pan while sautéing.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the flavor and freshness of the dish.
- Feel free to use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for leftovers.
- For a vegan variation, omit Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
