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Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe

Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 107 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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