Name: Summer Veg Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces pasta of choice; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 yellow squash, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Description

Summer Veg Pasta is a vibrant and healthy Italian-inspired main course featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables sautéed in olive oil and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This quick and easy recipe combines zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes with garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful, satisfying meal ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

12 ounces pasta of choice
1 zucchini, sliced
1 yellow squash, sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Seasonings and Garnish

2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce later.
Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced zucchini, yellow squash, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they soften slightly.
Combine Pasta and Veggies: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with vegetables. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to coat and bind the mixture evenly.
Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Mix thoroughly to combine flavors.
Season and Serve: Season the pasta with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein to make it a more substantial meal.
Use any fresh, seasonal vegetables available such as asparagus, spinach, or bell peppers to customize the dish.
Finish with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving for enhanced richness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian