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: 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta; Salt for boiling water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish; 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy a quick and delicious meal with this easy weeknight pasta dinner recipe, perfect for busy evenings.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:10:13.258Z

This easy weeknight pasta dinner recipe brings together fresh ingredients and quick cooking for a perfect family meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Packed with flavor from fresh herbs and vegetables
Versatile - customize with your favorite protein or veggies

      

A Quick and Flavorful Meal

When your schedule is packed, finding time to prepare a delightful dinner can be challenging. This easy weeknight pasta dinner recipe is designed with busy individuals in mind. With a cooking time of only 30 minutes, you can have a nourishing meal on the table without sacrificing flavor. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also healthy.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using readily available ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Whether you’re coming home from work or juggling family activities, this pasta dish allows you to enjoy quality time around the dinner table without the stress of complicated cooking.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the standout features of this pasta dinner is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, this recipe accommodates all. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu to make it heartier, or toss in your favorite seasonal vegetables for a unique twist.

Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley to enhance the flavor profile further. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a go-to for any night of the week. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up any leftover produce you have in your fridge, reducing waste and maximizing flavor.

Perfect for Leftovers

Not only is this easy weeknight pasta dinner quick to prepare, but it also makes fantastic leftovers. If you find yourself with extra servings, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to meld, making for an even more flavorful lunch or dinner the next day.

Reheating is a breeze; simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can even add a splash of olive oil or a sprinkle of cheese before serving to freshen it up. This means you can enjoy a delicious meal without having to cook from scratch every day, giving you more time to relax and unwind.

Ingredients

Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Salt for boiling water

Sauce and Vegetables

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

Optional Protein

1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)

Prepare the ingredients and get ready to cook!

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. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper, and toss everything together. If using, add the cooked protein at this stage. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious and easy weeknight pasta dinner!

Expert Tips for Success

To ensure your pasta is perfectly cooked, always follow the package instructions and taste for doneness a minute or two before the time is up. This will help you achieve that ideal al dente texture, which is crucial for a great pasta dish.

When sautéing the vegetables, feel free to adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of tenderness. If you prefer a bit of crunch, reduce the cooking time slightly. Additionally, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth for extra moisture and flavor during the cooking process.

Pairing Suggestions

To complete your easy weeknight pasta dinner, consider pairing it with a light salad or garlic bread. A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can complement the flavors of the pasta beautifully. Alternatively, a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread can be the perfect accompaniment for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For beverages, a glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon can enhance your dining experience. If you're serving this dish to family or friends, consider preparing a light dessert, such as sorbet or fresh fruit, to round out the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works great and adds extra fiber!

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and store them separately.

→ What can I substitute for garlic?

You can use garlic powder instead, or omit it if you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply omit any animal protein and use vegetable broth for added flavor.