Fresh Garden Tomato Zucchini Pasta features tender pasta tossed with sautéed zucchini, sweet tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, herbs, and Parmesan for a light seasonal meal.
12 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package directions until tender with slight firmness.
Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking liquid, then drain pasta.
Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add sliced zucchini and cook about 4 to 5 minutes until slightly golden.
Stir in halved tomatoes and cook until juices release.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss with vegetables.
Add a few tablespoons reserved pasta water if needed for a light sauce.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
Fold in fresh basil and serve warm.
Whole-grain pasta adds extra fiber and nutty flavor.
A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens the tomato sauce.