### Delicious Baked Zucchini with Tomatoes & Pasta Recipe
Are you looking for a vibrant and delicious side dish that can elevate your meal? Try our baked zucchini with tomatoes and pasta! This recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a summer dinner or a weeknight meal, this dish combines the crispiness of baked zucchini with the richness of tomato sauce and the comfort of pasta.
#### Ingredients:
- 4 large zucchinis
- 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
- 4 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
#### Preparation Steps:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly.
2. **Prepare the Zucchini:**
- Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise.
- Remove the seeds from the middle of each piece to make them thinner and more tender.
3. **Boil the Pasta:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta but reserve some of the cooking water for later use if needed.
4. **Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:**
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they start breaking down and releasing their juices.
5. **Assemble the Baked Zucchini:**
- Place the prepared zucchinis in a baking dish.
- Spoon some of the tomato sauce mixture into each zucchini half, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
6. **Bake the Zucchini:**
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the tops to brown slightly.
7. **Combine Pasta and Zucchini:**
- Once done, remove from the oven and transfer the baked zucchini into a serving dish.
- Add the cooked pasta on top of or around the zucchinis.
- Drizzle some of the remaining tomato sauce over the pasta for extra flavor.
8. **Serve Immediately:**
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or main course!
#### Tips & Tricks:
- For an even more vibrant color, try using yellow zucchini alongside green ones.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add some heavy cream or half-and-half to the tomato sauce before baking.
By following these detailed steps and tips, you can create a mouthwatering baked zucchini with tomatoes and pasta that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this easy yet flavorful dish today!