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Summer Vegetable Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, Zucchini, and Fresh Basil Recipe

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4.3 from 59 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Summer Pasta is a light and colorful Italian-American dish bursting with fresh summer vegetables like zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, and sweet corn. Enhanced by garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese, this easy stovetop recipe offers a perfect fusion of vibrant flavors and simple, healthy ingredients ideal for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

Flavorings & Garnishes

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the penne or rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Cook Vegetables: Add the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and corn kernels to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  4. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften slightly, releasing their juices.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, then add the tablespoon of lemon juice and splash in some of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce.
  6. Toss and Season: Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese, basil, and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Serve the pasta warm, with additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp to increase protein content and make it a heartier meal.
  • Fresh basil is key for the best flavor; dried basil will not provide the same fresh aromatic quality.
  • For peak flavor and texture, enjoy this dish immediately after preparation.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://sarasplate.com/summer-vegetable-pasta-with-cherry-tomatoes-zucchini-and-fresh-basil-recipe/