Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes: A Fresh and Flavorful Dish

Pasta with zucchini and tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of summer vegetables with the comforting warmth of a classic pasta. With tender zucchini slices and juicy tomatoes, this recipe is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to shine, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or even an elegant meal for guests.

Ingredients:

• 300 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite shape)
• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 400 g cherry tomatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, which can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

2. Sauté the Zucchini

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced zucchini and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is golden brown and tender. The zucchini should have a slight caramelized edge that enhances its natural sweetness. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then transfer the zucchini to a plate and set aside.

3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Stir well and let the tomatoes cook for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices, forming a light and fresh sauce.

4. Combine the Pasta and Zucchini

Return the cooked zucchini to the skillet with the tomato sauce, stirring gently to combine. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up. The starches in the pasta water help create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.

5. Add Fresh Herbs and Serve

Stir in the chopped fresh basil, allowing its aromatic flavor to infuse the pasta. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Transfer the pasta with zucchini and tomatoes to serving plates or a large bowl. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the pasta is warm and the flavors are at their best.

Variations and Tips

Pasta with zucchini and tomatoes is a versatile recipe that you can customize to your taste:

• Add Protein: For a more filling dish, try adding cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms. Simply add them to the skillet along with the zucchini or tomatoes for a hearty addition.
• Use Different Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley work well in this dish if you don’t have basil on hand. Each herb will add its own unique flavor.
• Cheesy Variation: If you love cheese, try adding fresh mozzarella or crumbled goat cheese to the pasta before serving. The creamy texture will melt slightly into the warm pasta, adding a delicious richness.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta with zucchini and tomatoes pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments:

• As a Light Main Course: Serve the pasta on its own for a satisfying yet light meal. It’s perfect for summer when you want something fresh and simple.
• With a Side Salad: Pair the pasta with a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or a fresh baguette to soak up any extra sauce and make the meal even more enjoyable.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

How to Select and Store Zucchini

• Choosing Zucchini: Look for zucchini that are firm and have smooth, dark green skin without blemishes. Smaller zucchini tend to be sweeter and more tender than larger ones.
• Storing Zucchini: Store fresh zucchini in the refrigerator, ideally in a plastic bag or wrapped in a paper towel to prevent moisture loss. Use within a week for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Pasta with zucchini and tomatoes is a fresh and easy dish that highlights the flavors of ripe summer produce. The combination of golden-brown zucchini slices and juicy tomatoes with a hint of fresh basil creates a pasta dish that’s both light and satisfying. It’s a perfect recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal shared with loved ones. Give it a try and enjoy the simple pleasures of delicious, homemade pasta!