This Fresh Zucchini and Tomato Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Made with tender zucchini ribbons, ripe cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, it delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
The combination of zucchini and tomatoes creates a vibrant, healthy pasta dish that celebrates fresh summer produce. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for warm evenings or a simple vegetarian dinner.
Fresh Zucchini and Tomato Pasta: A Summer Delight
This vibrant dish combines the freshness of summer zucchini and tomatoes, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds.
With spiralized zucchini ribbons and juicy cherry tomatoes, this pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce.
Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this zucchini pasta is light yet satisfying, making it an ideal choice for those warm evenings.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
You’ll need medium zucchinis, which can be spiralized or sliced into ribbons, and ripe cherry tomatoes that add a burst of sweetness.
Garlic and olive oil provide a fragrant base, while fresh basil adds a touch of brightness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese ties everything together, enhancing the overall flavor profile of this dish.
Quick Preparation for Busy Nights
One of the standout features of this recipe is its speed.
With a total time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Start by cooking your pasta until al dente, then sauté the zucchini and tomatoes in olive oil with garlic for a few minutes. Combine everything in a skillet, and you’re ready to serve!
Health Benefits of Zucchini and Tomatoes
This dish not only pleases the palate but also offers numerous health benefits.
Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins, making it a great addition to healthy pasta dishes.
Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its heart health benefits. Together, they create a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this pasta, presentation matters.
Serve it in a rustic bowl to enhance its homemade charm, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
Pair it with a light salad or a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This zucchini tomato pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy option for lunch, this recipe fits the bill.
Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion, proving that healthy eating can be both enjoyable and satisfying.
Quick and Healthy Zucchini Pasta Recipe
This zucchini pasta features sautéed zucchini and cherry tomatoes tossed with al dente pasta, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The recipe serves 4 and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized or sliced into ribbons
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or your choice)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the zucchini ribbons and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender and tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the zucchini and tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Finish: Stir in chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates and top with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g