Garlicky Zucchini & Cherry Tomato Pasta
Perfect choice Here’s a light, cozy, and flavorful Garlicky Zucchini & Cherry Tomato Pasta — very Mediterranean, quick, and weeknight-friendly.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: ~30 minute
Ingredients
12 oz (340 g) spaghetti, linguine, or penne
2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
4–5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan (or Pecorino Romano)
¼ cup fresh basil, torn
Zest of 1 lemon + 2 tbsp juice
Instructions
1. Cook pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Sauté zucchini
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet.
Add zucchini, season with salt, and cook 5–6 minutes until golden and tender. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook garlic & tomatoes
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil.
Add sliced garlic and chili flakes, cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in cherry tomatoes, cook until they blister and release juices (5–7 minutes).
4. Combine pasta
Return zucchini to skillet.
Add drained pasta and toss everything together.
Pour in ½ cup reserved pasta water (more if needed) to create a light sauce.
Stir in lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Finish & serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan and fresh basil.
Serve warm with extra cheese on top.
Notes & Tips
For extra protein: add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Use whole-wheat pasta for a more rustic, healthy version.
Add a dollop of ricotta or burrata on top for creaminess.
If you like it richer, swirl in 1 tbsp butter at the end.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry?
Yes, they work the same — just slice them in half.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh, but leftovers keep 2 days in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil.
Q: What’s the best pasta shape?
Long shapes (spaghetti, linguine) are great for twirling, but short shapes (penne, rigatoni) hold the zucchini chunks nicely.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 410
Protein: 14 g
Carbs: 60 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 5 g