Healthy Tomato Zucchini Pasta

🍝 Healthy Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe

A light, flavorful, and healthy pasta dish made with fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fresh summer dinner.

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📝 Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) whole wheat or regular pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)

• 2 medium zucchini, spiralized or thinly sliced

• 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth)

• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

• Pine nuts or toasted walnuts, for topping (optional)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   • Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.

   • Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Sauté the Veggies:

   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

   • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Add halved cherry tomatoes, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook 5–7 minutes until tomatoes soften and release their juices.

3. Add Zucchini:

   • Add zucchini spirals or slices to the skillet.

   • Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still bright green.

4. Combine Pasta & Sauce:

   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved pasta water and balsamic vinegar (if using).

   • Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until coated and heated through.

5. Finish & Serve:

   • Stir in fresh basil.

   • Season with more salt and pepper if needed.

   • Serve with grated Parmesan and toasted nuts on top, if desired.

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❓ Q&A: Healthy Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Q1: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta (like brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea pasta).

Q2: Can I add protein to this meal?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, white beans, or chickpeas pair wonderfully with this dish.

Q3: What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?

You can use diced Roma or plum tomatoes instead—just cook them a little longer to soften.

Q4: How can I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth.

Q5: Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prep the veggies and cook the pasta ahead. Assemble everything when ready to eat to maintain freshness.