Imagine twirling your fork into a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired pasta that transports you straight to the sun-drenched coastlines of Greece and Italy. This Mediterranean Pasta with Zucchini isn't just a meal - it's a culinary escape that combines fresh, seasonal vegetables with perfectly cooked pasta in a dish so delicious, it'll make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a food enthusiast craving authentic Mediterranean flavors, this recipe promises to deliver a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
- Add sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften but remain slightly crisp.
- Introduce halved cherry tomatoes and sliced olives to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing tomatoes to slightly break down.
- Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the vegetables. Stir to combine and distribute seasonings evenly.
- Drain cooked pasta and add directly to the skillet with vegetables. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately, optionally drizzling with extra virgin olive oil and offering grated Parmesan cheese on the side.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While this recipe works with various pasta shapes, short pasta like penne or fusilli hold the sauce best.
- Don't Overcook Zucchini: Keep them slightly crisp for the best texture and freshest flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps create a silky, light sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: If possible, use fresh basil instead of dried for a burst of authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Quality Ingredients Make a Difference: Use extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic for the most vibrant taste.
- Optional Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crumbled feta cheese to make the dish more substantial.
- Serve Immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, to maintain the perfect texture of vegetables and pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
