Tomato Zucchini Pasta
- 2 zucchini, sliced into ¼ inch circles, then halved or quartered depending on size
- 4–6 large tomatoes, seeded and diced OR 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 4–6 cloves garlic, chopped or minced
- 2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (start with 2 tbsp and add more as needed)
- 2–3 tablespoons plain tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼–½ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛–¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for serving)
- 1 12 oz box gluten-free spaghetti (e.g., Barilla)
- Optional: ricotta salata or goat cheese for serving
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add zucchini to the skillet and cook until just tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, mixing well, then add diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes break down and form a light sauce.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
- Serve topped with additional fresh basil and optional ricotta salata or goat cheese.