Best Weeknight Tomato Zucchini Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 225 grams dried pasta (penne, spaghetti, or preferred variety)

→ Base and Aromatics

02 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

03 - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped

→ Vegetables

05 - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

06 - 410 grams diced tomatoes with juices, canned or 480 grams fresh tomatoes, chopped

→ Seasoning

07 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)

08 - 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano

09 - 0.5 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

11 - Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

→ For Serving

12 - Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese

13 - Fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 milliliters pasta cooking water, then drain pasta.

02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.

03 - Add sliced zucchini to the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly golden.

04 - Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices and tomato paste if using. Add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.

05 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss thoroughly until pasta is evenly coated and heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

06 - Divide pasta among plates. Garnish with freshly grated cheese and chopped fresh herbs before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Yellow squash or mushrooms can be substituted for zucchini for variation.

02 - Add cooked chicken or chickpeas to increase protein content.

03 - For a creamier texture, incorporate 60 milliliters of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone at the end.

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