Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Tomato Zucchini Pasta because it’s so easy to make, yet it feels like a special meal. The zucchini adds a nice crunch, and the cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, blending perfectly into the pasta. The recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to serve to guests who drop by unexpectedly. The best part? It’s incredibly customizable – you can adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or even add more vegetables for variety. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those seasonal veggies in your kitchen!

Ingredients

8 oz fusilli pasta

2 medium green zucchinis, diced

2 cups whole cherry tomatoes

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp fennel seed

1/4 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 tsp ground black pepper

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

1 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Fresh basil or parsley leaves for garnish

1/2 tsp crushed chili flakes (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Fusilli Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.

Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini

While the pasta is cooking, dice the zucchinis into bite-sized pieces.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the diced zucchini and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini pieces are golden on the edges and tender.

Transfer the sautéed zucchini to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes with Spices

In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes, black pepper, fennel seed, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and 1/4 cup vegetable broth.

Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring regularly, until the tomatoes burst and soften, but still retain some shape.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Zucchini, and Cheese

Push the blistered tomatoes to one side of the skillet.

Add the cooked zucchini, fusilli pasta, and grated parmesan cheese to the pan.

Stir everything together and reheat gently for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more vegetable broth to loosen it.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, sprinkle extra grated parmesan over the top, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves.

For a bit of extra heat, dust with crushed chili flakes if desired.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

Pasta options: While fusilli works great, you can use any medium-sized pasta such as penne, rotini, or bow ties. For a low-carb option, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles.

Vegetables: Swap zucchini for yellow summer squash or even eggplant for a different flavor. You can also add spinach or bell peppers for more variety.

Dairy-free: Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free parmesan for a vegan version of this pasta.

Spice level: Adjust the spice by adding more or less cayenne pepper or chili flakes to suit your taste.

Storage/Reheating

This pasta dish is great for leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to bring back its sauciness, and top with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs for a fresh taste. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just ensure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions to get that perfect al dente texture.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute fresh cherry tomatoes with a can of diced tomatoes (drained). Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so the sauce doesn’t get too watery.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushy zucchini, sauté it on high heat for a short time, about 5-7 minutes, until it’s golden but still maintains some crunch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it with a splash of vegetable broth to bring it back to its saucy consistency.

What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, garlic bread, or grilled chicken or Italian sausage for extra protein.

Conclusion

This Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta is the perfect go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something delicious, nutritious, and easy to prepare. The combination of fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and a simple but flavorful sauce makes for a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. This is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your weeknight dinner rotation

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