If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor, this Healthy Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe is just what you need! This vibrant dish combines the fresh, garden-fresh taste of zucchini and cherry tomatoes with perfectly cooked pasta for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s a great way to use up your summer veggies, and it comes together in no time!

A Fresh and Flavorful Summer Pasta

There’s something irresistible about pasta tossed with fresh veggies. This tomato zucchini pasta is a healthy twist on a classic comfort dish. The juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, the slight crunch of zucchini, and the aromatic herbs create a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. It’s simple, wholesome, and perfect for any meal of the day.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s a versatile recipe that you can tweak to your liking, and it works wonderfully as a main course or a side dish. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!

Ingredients for Healthy Tomato Zucchini Pasta

To make this flavorful pasta dish, you’ll need a handful of fresh, simple ingredients that come together beautifully. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and pasta makes this dish both healthy and delicious.

Pasta (8 oz) – Use any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work well if you prefer a healthier twist.
Zucchini (2 medium) – Fresh zucchini adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender-crisp texture. Slice them into rounds for the best presentation.
Cherry Tomatoes (2 cups) – These little tomatoes burst with juicy sweetness when cooked, creating a light sauce that coats the pasta.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor with a subtle kick of warmth and aroma.
Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Extra virgin olive oil helps sauté the veggies and adds a rich, smooth finish to the pasta.
Fresh Basil (1/4 cup, chopped) – Basil adds a pop of fresh, herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with tomatoes and zucchini.
Parmesan Cheese (optional, for garnish) – A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a savory, nutty note to the dish. Feel free to use vegan cheese if desired.
Salt and Black Pepper – Season to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a hint of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

How to Make Healthy Tomato Zucchini Pasta

This recipe is simple and comes together in just a few steps. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, you’ll have a healthy, colorful meal on the table in no time!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set it aside while you prepare the veggies.

Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini rounds in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and tender. Remove the zucchini from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices, creating a light sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the sautéed zucchini to the skillet with the tomatoes. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Add Fresh Basil and Seasonings

Stir in the chopped fresh basil, and season the dish with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Give everything a final toss to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy this healthy, colorful pasta dish that’s packed with fresh flavors!

How Long to Cook Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Cooking times can vary depending on the type of pasta and how soft you like your vegetables. Here’s a quick guide to ensure everything is cooked perfectly:

Pasta – Cook according to the package instructions for al dente (usually 8-12 minutes). Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce later.
Zucchini – Sauté for about 6-8 minutes total until golden brown and tender, but not mushy.
Cherry Tomatoes – Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to burst and release their juices to form a light sauce.

The key is to keep the vegetables tender-crisp and fresh, not overcooked.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! This Tomato Zucchini Pasta keeps well and makes for a delicious meal the next day. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator – Place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce.
Freezer – While freezing pasta is possible, the texture of zucchini may become slightly mushy. If you want to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips for Perfect Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your pasta turns out delicious every time:

Choose the Right Pasta – Short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne works best for this recipe, as it holds the sauce and veggies well.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and basil make a big difference in the flavor and overall freshness of the dish.
Don’t Overcook the Veggies – Keep the zucchini and tomatoes tender but not mushy. Sautéing the zucchini until golden brown and allowing the tomatoes to burst naturally will give you the best flavor and texture.
Customize Your Add-Ins – Want to add more veggies? Try throwing in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Adjust the Heat – If you like a bit of spice, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper.

This healthy, vibrant pasta dish is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion!