Description
A light and flavorful pasta dish featuring sautéed zucchini and tomatoes tossed with al dente pasta, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan—perfect for a quick weeknight meal or light summer dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons (about 3 cups)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add zucchini; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is tender and lightly browned (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add cherry tomatoes; cook 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften and release juices.
- Stir in cooked pasta and reserved pasta water; toss to combine.
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and lemon juice (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil garnish.
Notes
- Use any short pasta you have on hand—fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle all work well.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of cream or a pat of butter at the end.
- Add protein such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or cannellini beans to make it a heartier entrée.
- Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried or vine-ripened tomatoes, depending on season and preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 of 4 servings
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 6 mg