One-Pot Zucchini and Tomato Pasta with Fresh Herbs

• •2 tablespoon olive oil
• •1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• •4 cloves garlic, minced
• •0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• •2 medium zucchini, cut into half-moons or 1/2-inch cubes
• •1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• •4 cup vegetable broth
• •12 oz short pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
• •1 teaspoon salt
• •0.5 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• •0.5 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• •0.3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• •1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped
• • to taste Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, for serving

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

2. 2

   Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

3. 3

   Stir in the zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to slightly soften.

4. 4

   Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the dry pasta, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

5. 5

   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

6. 6

   Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh basil, parsley, and oregano. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. 7

   Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Chef's Tips

• 💡Choose a short pasta shape like penne, rigatoni, or rotini for best results in a one-pot dish. Spaghetti can also work if broken in half.
• 💡Stir the pasta frequently during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking.
• 💡If the pasta absorbs all the liquid before it's fully cooked, add a splash more broth or water (1/4 cup at a time) until it reaches your desired doneness.
• 💡For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end, just before serving.