Name: Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces fusilli pasta; 2 medium green zucchinis; 2 cups whole cherry tomatoes; Fresh basil leaves or parsley leaves, for garnish; 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus additional for drizzling; 1/4 cup vegetable broth, plus extra as needed; 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra for serving; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon fennel seed; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional; 1/2 teaspoon crushed chili flakes, optional

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 26 reviews

If you’re searching for a dish that brings together vibrant vegetables and savory cheese into a satisfying bowl of comfort, look no further than this Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta. Imagine fusilli spirals capturing tender zucchini and juicy cherry tomatoes, all twirled together with parmesan and fragrant herbs. It’s quick enough for a Tuesday night yet impressive enough for guests, truly a meal to savor after a busy day!

Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of ingredients, each chosen to highlight the garden-fresh flavors and irresistible creaminess of Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta. Each component plays a key role in bringing color, texture, and depth to your plate—read on for tips to make every bite shine.

Pasta: 8 ounces fusilli pasta; its twists hold the sauce and vegetables beautifully for perfect forkfuls.
Zucchini: 2 medium green zucchinis; diced for a tender bite and bright color.
Cherry Tomatoes: 2 cups whole cherry tomatoes; they burst and soften into a sweet, saucy base.
Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley leaves for garnish; adding fresh, peppery flavor and gorgeous color to finish.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, plus extra; essential for sautéing and drizzling for a glossy finish.
Vegetable Broth: 1/4 cup, more if needed; brings just enough sauce and depth of flavor without weighing things down.
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated, plus extra; this brings savory creaminess that clings to every noodle.
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon; for that mellow, savory base that brings all the veggies together.
Fennel Seed: 1 teaspoon; a subtle, aromatic twist that makes this pasta stand out.
Ground Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon; don’t skimp—this peppery kick balances the creamy cheese and sweet tomatoes.
Cayenne Pepper (Optional): 1/2 teaspoon; add for a little extra heat if you like things zippy!
Crushed Chili Flakes (Optional): 1/2 teaspoon; sprinkle these on top for even more spicy flair.

How to Make Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Fusilli

Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add your fusilli and cook until beautifully al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. The trick here is not to overcook—it’s all about that perfect bite. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside while you turn your attention to those vibrant veggies.

Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini

Dice the zucchinis into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Heat a swirl of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in the zucchini. Sauté, stirring every so often, until your zucchini turns golden and tender—about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in all their flavor and sweetness. Remove the browned zucchini to a plate, keeping them ready for the next act.

Step 3: Blister the Tomatoes and Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet (don’t wash away that flavor!), add in your cherry tomatoes, garlic powder, fennel seed, ground black pepper, and optional cayenne. Pour in the vegetable broth and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften, blister, and gently burst. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes and results in a naturally sweet, glossy sauce that is the soul of your Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the tomatoes are ready, nudge them to one side of the skillet. Bring back the sautéed zucchini, followed by your cooked pasta and heaps of grated parmesan. Stir gently but thoroughly to mix, letting the cheese melt and the sauce cling to each fusilli spiral. If you want your pasta a bit saucier, splash in more broth or reserved pasta water until your ideal texture is reached.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Spoon the pasta into bowls or onto plates, then drizzle with a touch more olive oil. Add extra parmesan if you like things cheesy, and scatter fresh basil or parsley leaves all over for that garden-fresh hit. For those who crave a bit of fire, a final flourish of crushed chili flakes is the finishing touch. Serve right away and bask in the aroma of your creation!

How to Serve Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta

Garnishes

Nothing is quite as inviting as a bowl crowned with fresh herbs and a flurry of parmesan. I love scattering torn basil leaves for their aroma and bright flavor, but parsley also lends a lovely freshness. A glug of good olive oil on top adds sheen and richness, while a sprinkle of chili flakes brings gentle heat—totally irresistible!

Side Dishes

For a more complete meal, pair this pasta with a crisp green salad—one with lemony vinaigrette is perfect. Crusty bread is also a classic choice; you’ll want it to soak up the cheesy sauce. If you’re in the mood for more veggies, roasted asparagus or a tangy cucumber salad work beautifully without competing with the pasta’s starring flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

To make your Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta pop, try serving it in shallow bowls with parmesan shaved over the top. For a family-style dinner, pile the pasta onto a large platter and let everyone help themselves. You might also drizzle some infused chili oil or lemon zest for a touch of extra color and intrigue—perfect for dinner parties or cozy evenings in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight and make an excellent next-day lunch. Be sure to cool the pasta completely before covering to keep condensation from making it mushy.

Freezing

While pasta with zucchini and tomatoes is best enjoyed fresh, you can absolutely freeze leftovers if you need to. Transfer cooled pasta into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion. Freeze for up to one month. For best results, avoid freezing the fresh herbs and add them after reheating.

Reheating

To bring back your Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, splashing a little vegetable broth or water to loosen things up. Stir frequently to ensure the cheese melts smoothly and the vegetables reheat evenly. A microwave works in a pinch, though the skillet method preserves both texture and flavor best.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fusilli excels at catching the cheesy sauce and veggies, penne or rotini are fantastic alternatives. Any short pasta that holds sauce well will shine in this Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cannellini beans are delicious additions. Just fold your protein of choice in with the zucchini and tomatoes before adding the pasta for a heartier meal.

What if I don’t have fresh parmesan?

No worries! You can use grated pecorino or even a blend of Italian cheeses. For a dairy-free option, there are some wonderful store-bought vegan parmesan-style shreds that work beautifully in this recipe.

Is it spicy with the optional cayenne and chili flakes?

This pasta has just a mild warmth if you use both cayenne and chili flakes, but you have full control. Omit or reduce them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor; the dish is just as delicious without the heat.

Can I prep the vegetables ahead of time?

Yes! You can dice the zucchini and store it with the washed cherry tomatoes in the fridge, making assembly even quicker when it’s time to cook. That’s another reason why Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta is so weeknight-friendly!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts comforting and light, bursting with summer flavors and ready in a flash, this Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how such simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both cozy and fresh. Enjoy every delicious bite!