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+ servings
A close-up of a bowl of Tomato Zucchini Pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper.

Tomato Zucchini Pasta

This Tomato Zucchini Pasta recipe is a quick and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. It transforms simple seasonal vegetables into a flavorful dish the whole family will enjoy.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces pasta shape of choice
For the Sauce
  • 2 medium zucchini or summer squash sliced thinly
  • 1 pint sungold tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 3/4 cup dry, unoaked white wine
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves torn
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
For Serving (Optional)
  • 2 ounces parmesan cheese grated
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Diamond Crystal kosher salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • High-sided sauté pan
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Prepare your vegetables: Halve and slice the zucchini into thin half-moon pieces. Halve the sungold tomatoes and thinly slice the garlic.
  2. Start cooking: Place a large pot of water on one burner and a high-sided sauté pan on a burner next to it. Bring the water to a boil. Set the pan over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
  3. Cook the vegetables: Add the zucchini and sungold tomatoes to the pan. Season with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-9 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the zucchini is tender.
  4. Cook the pasta: Generously salt the boiling water and add the pasta. Boil for 6-7 minutes, or until al dente.
  5. Add aromatics and wine: Add the garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan with the zucchini and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Pour in the wine and stir, letting it simmer and reduce for 3-4 minutes. Taste and season with salt as needed.
  6. Add basil: Tear the fresh basil into the pan and stir.
  7. Combine pasta and sauce: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked pasta into the pan. Add a splash of the cream or coconut milk and a splash of salted pasta water. Stir to combine, alternating adding more cream and pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
  8. Serve: Portion the pasta into four bowls. Top with parmesan cheese and black pepper, if desired.

Notes

This recipe is a great way to use up seasonal vegetables. Feel free to substitute other pasta shapes or add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

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