One-Pot Zucchini Tomato Pasta

A Garden-Fresh Twist on Pasta Night

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and ridiculously easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, meet your new weeknight hero: One-Pot Zucchini Tomato Pasta. This summery dish brings together spiralized zucchini, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a kiss of garlic for a pasta alternative that’s vibrant, satisfying, and seriously delicious.

This isn’t your average veggie dish. It’s a colorful tangle of spiralized zucchini (zoodles) simmered in a garlicky olive oil base, tossed with sweet bursts of cherry tomatoes and ribbons of fresh basil. It’s everything you love about pasta—with a fraction of the carbs.

And best of all? It’s all done in one pot. That means fewer dishes, quicker cleanup, and more time for the things that matter—like actually enjoying your dinner.

This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when you want something fast and fresh. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, it’s endlessly flexible and easy to make.

Don’t let the simplicity fool you—this dish packs a punch. The garlic sautéed in extra virgin olive oil forms a rich base that coats each zucchini noodle, while the tomatoes release their juices to create a light sauce that’s bright and full of flavor.

The secret to perfect zoodles? Don’t overcook them. A couple of minutes in the pot is all it takes for them to become tender but still hold their structure. You’re not going for mush—you want that gentle bite that mimics al dente pasta.

Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, or add a sprinkle of parmesan for a touch of creamy, salty finish. It’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, but feels indulgent in the best way.

One bite, and you’ll realize this isn’t just another healthy meal—it’s crave-worthy comfort food that you’ll come back to again and again.

It’s also a brilliant way to use up extra zucchini from your garden or farmer’s market haul. Fresh, simple ingredients doing what they do best—shining in their natural state.

This dish is also perfect for meal prep. Make a batch, store in an airtight container, and enjoy it as a light lunch or side dish the next day.

It’s proof that plant-based meals can be full of color, texture, and flavor—not boring or bland.

So if you’re craving a lighter take on pasta that still feels satisfying, flavorful, and fast, this one-pot zucchini pasta might just become your new favorite.

Servings

Serves: 4

Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large red onion (or 2 small), thinly sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 pounds zucchini (about 4–5), spiralized
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn or chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Shredded parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over low to medium heat.
2. Add sliced red onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Add spiralized zucchini and season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook for 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently. Use tongs to gently toss the noodles so they cook evenly.
5. Add crushed red pepper if using, and fresh basil. Stir everything together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with a sprinkle of parmesan, if desired.

Tips

• Use firm zucchini for best spiralizing results.
• Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a heartier meal.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Avoid overcooking to prevent soggy noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot = easy cleanup
• Fresh, seasonal ingredients
• Fast and family-friendly
• Naturally light and nourishing
• Customizable with your favorite toppings

One-Pot Zucchini Tomato Pasta is a light, veggie-forward dish that’s fast, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious. A go-to for busy nights when you want something healthy but comforting.