This Fresh Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a quick and tasty dish. With ripe tomatoes and zucchini, it brings a burst of summer flavor to your table!
It’s perfect for a light meal or a side. Plus, who can resist the charm of pasta? I whip this up in no time when I’m feeling lazy, and it always hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend spaghetti or linguine for this dish, but you can use any pasta you like, even gluten-free varieties! Penne or rotini are great choices if you prefer a shape that holds sauce well.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a lovely texture. If zucchini is not available, yellow squash or even asparagus work nicely. You can also spiralize carrots for a fun twist!
Tomatoes: Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for a burst of flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes can be a good substitute. Just drain them a bit to avoid excess liquid.
Parmesan: While grated Parmesan adds a nice touch, feel free to skip it for a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast can also offer a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Cook Zucchini Without Making It Soggy?
Cooking zucchini just right can be tricky. You want it tender but still a little crisp. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Slice zucchini thinly to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Give it space to cook evenly. You may want to cook in batches.
- Keep the heat at medium to avoid releasing too much water. Cook just until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
If you want an even drier texture, pat the zucchini slices with paper towels before cooking. This will help them stay firm in your pasta!
Fresh Tomato Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta Base:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced or spiralized
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Extras:
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Fresh Tomato Zucchini Pasta takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare, which includes cooking the pasta and sautéing the veggies. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you simply want something fresh and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once warm, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the diced tomatoes. Let them cook for around 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their juices. This creates a lovely base for your sauce!
4. Incorporate the Zucchini:
Now, it’s zucchini time! Add the sliced or spiralized zucchini to the skillet and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, just until they’re tender yet still slightly crisp. You don’t want them too soft!
5. Season the Mixture:
Season your tomato and zucchini mix with salt and pepper to taste. This will help enhance all those lovely flavors you’ve built up so far.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Carefully add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
7. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the fresh basil along with the lemon juice if you’re using it. This brightens up the dish beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and serve the pasta immediately. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy this fresh and vibrant meal!
Dig in and savor every bite of your delicious Fresh Tomato Zucchini Pasta!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.
How Can I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil and warm it gently in a skillet or the microwave. Stir to ensure even heating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, feel free to add more vegetables! Bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms would be great additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic or tomatoes, adjusting the cooking times as needed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Making this dish vegan is easy! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
