Description
Tomato Zucchini Pasta is a light, vibrant dish brimming with fresh summer flavors. Tender zucchini ribbons and spaghetti are tossed in a garlicky tomato sauce and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan—a simple, healthy, and satisfying main course perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick lunch.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Pasta & Vegetables
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized or cut into ribbons
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
For Serving
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
- Extra fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Zucchini: While the pasta cooks, use either a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles or ribbons. Place the zucchini on a paper towel and set aside to absorb excess moisture.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes, gently pressing the tomatoes until they begin to soften and burst, releasing their juices.
- Toss Everything Together: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomatoes. Add the zucchini ribbons and toss gently to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper, then sprinkle in the torn basil.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates. Top with grated Parmesan and garnish with extra basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra protein, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
- Use a mix of yellow squash and zucchini for added color.
- Leftovers are best enjoyed within 1-2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 245mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg