Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe

Name: Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta; Salt for pasta water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is a quick and delicious option for busy evenings, packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:34:16.072Z

This recipe was born out of a desire for a quick, yet satisfying dinner option that the whole family would enjoy. With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, it's perfect for those busy weeknights.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Versatile recipe that you can customize with your favorite vegetables
Comforting and hearty, perfect for any night of the week

      

Perfect for Busy Nights

Finding time to cook during a hectic week can be challenging, but this Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is here to save the day. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without the stress of extensive preparation. This recipe is designed with busy schedules in mind, ensuring that you don’t have to compromise on flavor or nutrition.

Whether you’re juggling work, family, or social commitments, this pasta dish allows you to whip up a satisfying meal without sacrificing quality. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time, making it a perfect choice for those evenings when you need something quick yet comforting.

Customize to Your Liking

One of the highlights of this Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or even leftover roasted vegetables. This adaptability allows you to create a dish that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Additionally, you can enhance the flavors by incorporating protein options such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. This way, you can transform the dish into a hearty meal that satisfies your hunger while still being quick and easy to prepare. The possibilities are endless, making it a favorite for families and individuals alike.

A Comforting Classic

Pasta is a beloved comfort food for many, and this recipe encapsulates all the warmth and satisfaction you crave. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a delightful medley of flavors that will please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for a nutritious boost.

The comforting nature of this dish makes it ideal for any night of the week, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends. You can even prepare it in advance and reheat it for a quick meal later in the week. This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

Pasta

12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Salt for pasta water

Sauce & Vegetables

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites or whatever you have on hand!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your quick and easy weeknight dinner!

This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To achieve the perfect pasta, always remember to salt your boiling water generously. This not only enhances the flavor of the pasta but also helps to prevent it from becoming sticky. Following the package instructions for cooking time is key, as different pasta shapes may require varying cooking durations to reach that ideal al dente texture.

Another tip is to reserve some pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water can be a game-changer when combining your pasta with the sauce, helping to create a smooth, cohesive dish. Just add a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the pasta from drying out, store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring it back to life.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta and sauce separately. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal later on without compromising on quality. Just remember to label your containers with the date so you can easily keep track of your meals.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner experience, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the pasta beautifully. Additionally, a slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette can round out your meal, adding that extra touch of comfort and indulgence.

For the beverage pairing, a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon will enhance the flavors of the dish. These thoughtful pairings will transform your simple weeknight dinner into a delightful dining experience, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain pasta for this recipe?

Yes, whole grain pasta can be used as a healthier alternative.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add spinach, mushrooms, or any seasonal vegetables you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, just ensure no cheese is added.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.