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Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes Recipe

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4.3 from 13 reviews

A quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender zucchini and sweet cherry tomatoes sautéed with garlic and tossed with al dente penne pasta, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a light and healthy weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

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

  • 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

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes so it remains al dente—firm yet cooked through.
  2. Sauté Zucchini: While the pasta cooks, heat a large ceramic non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat. Add the chopped zucchini and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until tender. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Tomatoes and Garlic: Return the skillet to the heat, add another tablespoon of olive oil, and swirl to coat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  4. Combine Ingredients and Serve: Turn off the heat, then add the cooked pasta and sautéed zucchini back into the skillet. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, grated Parmesan, and chopped fresh parsley or basil. Stir everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve immediately for a delicious 20-minute meal.

Notes

  • Use extra virgin olive oil for best flavor and health benefits.
  • Make sure not to overcook the pasta to keep a pleasant firm texture that balances the soft sautéed vegetables.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add brightness – feel free to experiment with your favorite herb.
  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a plant-based cheese.
  • This dish is great served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/pasta-with-zucchini-and-tomatoes-recipe/