One Tray Zucchini Pasta

A quick and family-friendly dish that combines tender pasta, fresh zucchini, garlic, and roasted tomatoes, all prepared on a single tray for minimal cleanup.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Family-friendly, Italian

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Essentials

2-3 medium Zucchini, sliced into half-moons or rounds Holds up well under roasting and stays mild.
12-16 oz Pasta of choice (penne, farfalle, rotini, or small shells) Cook slightly under al dente.
2-3 tablespoons Olive oil To coat ingredients.
2-3 cloves Garlic, minced Or use 1-2 teaspoons garlic powder.
1-2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved Roast into sweet bursts.
2-3 big handfuls Spinach, fresh Wilts into warm pasta.
Salt and pepper, to taste
2-3 tablespoons Nutritional yeast (optional) Adds a cheesy, nutty finish.
a few leaves Fresh basil, roughly torn For garnish.

Optional Add-ons

Grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella For families that prefer dairy.
Lemon zest or juice Brightens the dish.
Red pepper flakes For a little heat.
Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds For added crunch.
Cooked chicken or canned white beans For extra protein.

Method

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the zucchini, halve the cherry tomatoes, and mince the garlic. Line your tray with parchment for easier cleanup.
Boil the pasta until just shy of al dente, drain, and toss with a little olive oil.

Combining

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until well coated.

Roasting

Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking tray and poke the spinach into the gaps.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through if desired, until the zucchini is tender and the tomatoes are blistered.

Serving

Remove from the oven, sprinkle nutritional yeast or cheese if using, and tear fresh basil over the top before serving.

Notes

Cook the pasta while chopping to save time. Avoid overcooking the pasta to ensure it remains firm after roasting. Serve with kid-friendly sides for an easy meal.