Spaghetti Aglio Oglio with Zucchini Tomato Basil

Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and easy-to-make Spaghetti Aglio Olio with Zucchini, Tomato, and Basil. This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the simplicity of garlicky olive oil spaghetti with the freshness of sautéed zucchini, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. A touch of red chili flakes adds subtle heat, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese offers an optional savory finish. Ready in just 35 minutes, this wholesome, vegetarian recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Serve it warm with a crusty loaf of bread or a crisp side salad for the ultimate Mediterranean dining experience!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams spaghetti
• 2 medium zucchini
• 200 grams cherry tomatoes
• 20 grams fresh basil leaves
• 6 cloves garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 70 milliliters extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Slice the zucchini into thin half-moons and halve the cherry tomatoes.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4

Add the red chili flakes to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds to release their flavor.

Step 5

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and lightly golden.

Step 6

Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 7

Lower the heat to medium, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, and toss until well coated in the garlic oil and vegetables. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 8

Tear the fresh basil leaves and add them to the skillet. Toss gently to combine.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 10

Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1157.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1612.8

Total Fat 84.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 19.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 40mg	0%
Sodium 6869.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 170.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.8g	0%
Total Sugars 36.2g
Protein 50.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 743.8mg	0%
Iron 10.3mg	0%
Potassium 1732.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 46.4%

Protein: 12.1%

Carbs: 41.4%