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–+ servings
Healthy tomato zucchini pasta dish with fresh ingredients

Healthy Tomato Zucchini Pasta

A light and satisfying pasta dish celebrating summer produce with tender zucchini ribbons and burst cherry tomatoes in a flavorful garlic and olive oil sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Vegetarian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 8 oz 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne) Use spaghetti for a classic feel or penne for something heartier.

Vegetables

  • 2 medium 2 medium zucchinis, sliced Medium zucchinis have the best texture; larger ones can be watery.
  • 2 cups 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved Can substitute with 2-3 vine tomatoes, chopped.
  • 3 cloves 3 cloves garlic, minced Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.

Oils and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste Season generously.

Garnish

  • Fresh basil for garnish Tear basil with your hands to release aroma.
  • Grated parmesan cheese (optional) Omit for a vegan version.

Instructions
 

Cooking Pasta

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Tip: Salt the pasta water generously. Cook pasta to al dente.

Sauté Vegetables

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
  • Tip: Watch the garlic carefully—stir constantly until fragrant but not browned.
  • Add the sliced zucchini and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes.
  • Tip: Start with zucchini for the first 2-3 minutes, then add tomatoes.

Combine

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
  • Tip: If it looks dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more olive oil.

Serve

  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated parmesan cheese if desired.
  • Tip: Add protein like shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed shrimp if desired.

Notes

For a one-pot method, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and add pasta directly to skillet with vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 10gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1.5gSodium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5g
Keyword Healthy Pasta, Light Dinner, Summer Recipe, Tomato Zucchini Pasta, Vegetable Pasta
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