Easy Dinner Recipes: 5 Steps to Tasty Pasta Delight

Name: Easy Dinner Recipes: 5 Steps to Tasty Pasta Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

June 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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If you’re anything like me, you know how hectic weeknights can get. That’s why I absolutely adore easy dinner recipes, especially when they involve pasta! This dish is a simple yet flavorful combination of spaghetti, fresh vegetables, and a hint of garlic that comes together in no time. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve whipped this up after a long day, and it never fails to impress. The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes and zucchini make it just as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate! Plus, it’s a fantastic base for all sorts of variations. Trust me, this dish quickly becomes a go-to for busy evenings when you still want something delicious and satisfying. Let’s dive into the magic of this quick pasta meal!

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Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious pasta dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 oz spaghetti – You can use any pasta you love, but spaghetti really holds onto the flavors!
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – These add a burst of sweetness and color.
1 zucchini, diced – A great way to sneak in some veggies!
1 bell pepper, diced – I love using red or yellow for a pop of color.
2 cloves garlic, minced – The fragrance of garlic is just irresistible.
1 tbsp olive oil – Extra virgin is my go-to for that rich flavor.
1 tsp salt – Essential for seasoning the pasta water!
1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly cracked, if you can!
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that creamy, cheesy finish.
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped – Nothing beats fresh herbs for garnishing!

Make sure your vegetables are fresh and ready to go! You can wash and chop them ahead of time to make the cooking process even smoother.

How to Prepare Instructions

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! This process is smooth and straightforward, so you’ll have a delectable meal ready in no time.

Cooking the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. This is crucial for cooking the spaghetti evenly. I always recommend salting the water generously—about a tablespoon should do. It should taste like the sea! Once your water is boiling, add the 8 oz spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s perfectly al dente. You want it to have a slight bite to it, so keep an eye on it. Before draining, reserve about a cup of that lovely starchy pasta water; it’ll help bring everything together later!

Sautéing the Vegetables

While your pasta cooks, let’s get those veggies sizzling! In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—wow, it smells amazing! Next, toss in the 1 diced zucchini and 1 diced bell pepper. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender but still vibrant. We want to keep that crunch, so don’t overdo it!

Combining Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together gently, and if it looks a bit dry, add a splash of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste. Finally, sprinkle over 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and give it a good mix. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh chopped basil right before serving. Trust me, the fresh herbs make all the difference!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish isn’t just easy to make; it’s bursting with flavor and offers so many reasons to love it! Here are just a few:

Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious fast!
Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables, garlic, and Parmesan creates a vibrant, satisfying meal that’s sure to please your taste buds.
Versatile: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, making this dish adaptable for any season or dietary preference.
Healthy Option: Packed with veggies and a wholesome base, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup! Everything comes together in one pan, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
Kid-Friendly: The colorful ingredients and mild flavors make it a hit with kids, encouraging them to eat their veggies without a fuss!

Honestly, what’s not to love? This dish is not just dinner; it’s a delightful experience that brings the whole family together. Yum!

Tips for Success

If you want to take this easy dinner recipe to the next level, I’ve got some fantastic tips to share! These little tricks can really enhance your dish and make it even more enjoyable.

Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap out the vegetables depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Asparagus, spinach, or even broccoli would work beautifully in this dish!
Boost the Flavor: For an extra punch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. It’ll give your dish a delightful kick that elevates the whole meal!
Trust Your Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Everyone’s palate is different, so taste as you go! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors even more.
Perfect Pasta Water: Remember that reserved pasta water? It’s liquid gold! Use it to adjust the sauce’s consistency and add a bit of starch, which helps everything cling together beautifully.
Presentation is Key: When serving, use a large pasta bowl to present the dish family-style. This makes it feel festive! A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few whole basil leaves on top can make a world of difference in presentation.
Make It a Meal: If you’d like to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp would be fantastic additions. Just toss them in with the vegetables for a heartier meal!
Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat them gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or a bit more pasta water to keep it from drying out.

With these tips, you’ll not only perfect this dish but also impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this easy pasta dish is its versatility! You can easily mix things up to keep it fresh and exciting. Here are some fun variations to try:

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed tofu for a heartier meal. Just toss them in with the vegetables for a complete dish that’ll keep you satisfied!
Seasonal Veggies: Switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Try asparagus in the spring, roasted butternut squash in the fall, or even kale for an extra nutrient boost!
Pasta Variety: If spaghetti isn’t your favorite, feel free to use any pasta you love! Penne, fusilli, or whole wheat varieties all work beautifully, and they can add a fun twist to the dish.
Herb Infusion: Change up the herbs! Instead of basil, try fresh parsley, oregano, or even a sprinkle of thyme for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Choices: While Parmesan adds a lovely creaminess, experiment with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just crumble it over the top before serving!
Spice It Up: Want to add a little heat? Toss in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables for a spicy kick!
Veggie-Loaded: For a more veggie-heavy dish, load it up with your favorites! Spinach, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts can add different textures and flavors.

With these variations, you can make this dish your own and keep everyone guessing what delicious twist you’ll come up with next. Enjoy your culinary creativity!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for each serving of this delightful pasta dish. Keep in mind that these values are based on typical ingredients used and can vary based on specific brands or substitutions:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 12g

This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a wholesome meal. Enjoy the goodness of fresh ingredients while relishing every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve compiled some of the most common questions I get about this easy dinner recipe, along with my favorite tips and tricks to help you make the most of it!

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love spaghetti for this dish, feel free to use any pasta you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta can work wonders here. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?
No worries at all! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried basil or even Italian seasoning. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the amount.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or pasta water to keep things fresh and flavorful!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep your ingredients in advance! Chop your veggies and store them in the fridge. Just cook the pasta and sauté the vegetables when you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with this pasta?
This pasta dish shines on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a more complete meal. A glass of white wine won’t hurt either!

How do I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast for that cheesy taste!

Can I freeze this pasta dish?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing the whole dish, as the texture of the pasta can change. However, you can freeze the sautéed vegetables and then cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

I hope these answers help you with your pasta-making adventures! If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying this delicious pasta dish again! Here’s how to do it right:

Cool Before Storing: Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps your leftovers fresh.
Airtight Containers: Transfer the pasta to airtight containers. This keeps the flavors locked in and prevents any unwanted odors from your fridge mingling in.
Refrigeration: Store your pasta in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t eat it all in that time, consider freezing it!
Freezing: To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to label them with the date, so you know what’s what! It should keep well for about 2 months.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers again, here’s how to reheat them:

Stovetop Method: This is my favorite way! Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the pasta and a bit of reserved pasta water to help loosen it up. Stir gently until heated through—this keeps it from drying out!
Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed to your liking.

Just a heads up—while you can reheat this dish, it’s best enjoyed fresh. But with these tips, you’ll keep the flavors and textures as delightful as they were on the first day!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.