Delicious Tomato Zucchini Pasta with Fresh Herbs and Olive Oil 🍅🥒🌿
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a vegetarian pasta dish that is both wholesome and bursting with flavor, this tomato zucchini pasta recipe is perfect. Combining tender zucchini, ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and drizzled with high-quality olive oil, this healthy pasta dish is easy to prepare and ideal for a light lunch or dinner. Not only is it vegan-friendly, but it also offers a nutritious way to enjoy your favorite pasta without heavy sauces or cream. Discover how to make this vibrant dish step-by-step!
2. Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, or whole wheat)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced thin
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Tomato Zucchini Pasta with Fresh Herbs
Prepare the pasta
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the garlic and zucchini
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the sliced zucchini and cook until tender but still vibrant, about 4-5 minutes.
Add the tomatoes
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften slightly, releasing their juices, about 3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine and toss
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently so the pasta absorbs the flavorful tomato and zucchini mixture. Mix in the chopped fresh herbs and adjust seasoning as needed.
Final touches
Sprinkle additional herbs on top for garnish and drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and flavor.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Tomato Zucchini Pasta
If you have leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or microwave in short bursts. For best results, enjoy this vegetarian pasta fresh, but it still preserves its taste and texture when stored properly.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Vegetarian Pasta Experience
This tomato zucchini pasta pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a mixed green salad. Feel free to add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for extra flavor. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chickpeas or tofu. Looking for complementary recipes? Check out this creamy spinach and mushroom pasta or try making a hearty vegan vegetable soup.
6. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
For an effortless cooking experience, equip yourself with essential kitchen tools. The Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master makes slicing zucchinis quick and uniform, ensuring perfect texture. The CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set provides reliable pots and pans for sautéing and boiling. Additionally, a good KitchenAid Stand Mixer can help if you plan to make fresh pasta from scratch someday!
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Tomato Zucchini Pasta with Fresh Herbs
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and can be made entirely plant-based by avoiding any cheese or dairy additions.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process typically takes around 20-25 minutes, making it a quick and healthy weeknight dinner option.
Can I add protein to this vegetarian pasta?
Certainly! Add grilled tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas to enhance the protein content without compromising the healthy pasta profile.
8. Conclusion
This delicious tomato zucchini pasta with fresh herbs and olive oil is a celebration of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for anyone craving a vegetarian pasta that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a quick lunch or a light dinner, this tomato zucchini pasta recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Embrace the freshness of herbs, the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and the simplicity of good-quality olive oil to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Happy cooking!
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Delicious Tomato Zucchini Pasta with Fresh Herbs and Olive Oil
A fresh and wholesome tomato zucchini pasta made with spiralized zucchini noodles, ripe cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil, offering a light yet satisfying meal.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften slightly.
- Add spiralized zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with chopped basil and grated cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy fresh flavors.
Notes
- Use young zucchinis for the best spiralizing texture.
- Adjust cooking time for desired zucchini tenderness.
- Top with additional cheese or nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing, Spiralizing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 180 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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