A vibrant, healthy pasta recipe made with fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for summer dinners, light lunches, or easy vegetarian meals.
8 oz pasta (whole wheat, gluten-free, or traditional)
2 medium zucchini, sliced or diced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup reserved pasta water
Handful fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Grated parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté zucchini until lightly golden (6–8 minutes).
Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add tomatoes and cook until soft (5–6 minutes).
Toss in cooked pasta and pasta water to create a light sauce.
Stir in herbs, season, and top with cheese if desired. Serve warm or cold.
Use canned tomatoes if fresh aren’t available.
Add beans or grilled protein for a heartier meal.
Great for meal prep or summer picnics.