Name: Quick One-Pan Spinach and Zucchini Pasta
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1 medium zucchini , thinly sliced into half-moons; 2 cups fresh baby spinach; 2 cloves garlic , minced; 2 tablespoons extra -virgin olive oil; 2.5 cups wate r; 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

It’s 6pm. You’re tired. Dinner needs to happen fast.

This quick one-pan pasta is your new best friend for busy weeknights. It delivers a fresh, healthy meal in just ten minutes total.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

You will love how this dish uses only one skillet. This means minimal cleanup for you after a long day.

It is perfect for a light summer dinner when zucchini is fresh. The pasta starch creates a silky, natural sauce without heavy cream.

Even picky eaters enjoy the mild flavors of garlic and parmesan. It is a budget-friendly way to feed your family fresh vegetables.

Simple Method

This recipe uses the absorption method which is a total game-changer. You cook the dry pasta directly with the vegetables and water.

Everything boils together in one pan until the liquid reduces. This creates a light sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly.

It is foolproof for beginners and feels like magic as it thickens. You don’t even need to drain a heavy pot of boiling water!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or garden.

8 oz angel hair pasta
1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced into half-moons
2 cups fresh baby spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2.5 cups water
0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon kosher salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Directions

Place the pasta, zucchini, garlic, olive oil, salt, red pepper flakes, and water into a large straight-sided skillet.
Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat.
Cook the mixture, tossing constantly with tongs to ensure pasta does not stick, for approximately 5 to 6 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has reduced to a thin sauce.
Add the fresh baby spinach and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet.
Toss for 1 minute until the spinach is wilted and the cheese is incorporated.
Season with black pepper and serve immediately.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this warm with an extra sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a lovely bright pop.

Pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It also goes great with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Set the table, pour a glass of water, and enjoy a quiet moment. This meal makes a stress-free weeknight feel much more special.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days.

To reheat, add a small splash of water to the pan. This helps loosen the sauce so it isn’t dry.

Warm it over medium heat for 2-3 minutes while tossing gently. I do not recommend freezing this pasta as the zucchini gets soft.

Recipe Tips

Slice your zucchini very thin so it cooks quickly.
Don’t skip the constant tossing or the pasta might stick.
Use a large skillet so the pasta has room to move.
Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Add a handful of fresh summer basil at the end.
Double the red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
Make sure your water is boiling before you start timing.

Easy Flavor Ideas

Swap the water for vegetable broth for a deeper savory flavor.
Add cherry tomatoes during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this allergy-friendly for your family.
Top with toasted pine nuts for a satisfying crunch.
Stir in a spoonful of pesto for a bright green twist.

Common Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Angel hair works best because it cooks so fast. If you use spaghetti, you will need more water and time.

Is this recipe really made in one pan?

Yes, everything goes into the same skillet at once. It is the easiest way to make a fresh pasta dinner.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Fresh baby spinach is best for the texture of this sauce. If you use frozen, squeeze all the water out first.

I hope this quick one-pan pasta makes your busy weeknights a little easier. It is so fresh, light, and satisfying for the whole family. Give it a try tonight!

— Lidia