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 any pasta of choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh basil, chopped (optional); Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is a quick and delicious solution for busy evenings. Packed with flavor and ready in no time, it's sure to become a family favorite.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:40:06.060Z

After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe was created to get a wholesome meal on the table in no time. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a delightful dinner with your loved ones.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Flavorful sauce that brings all the ingredients together
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and proteins

      

A Perfect Weeknight Solution

After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is designed to minimize prep and cooking time while maximizing flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that will delight your taste buds and nourish your family.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With a cook time of around 20 minutes, this dish allows you to move from kitchen to table in no time. Whether you're returning from work, managing after-school activities, or simply busy with life, this pasta dinner is the answer you've been looking for.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the standout features of this pasta recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your family's preferences. Don't have zucchini? No problem! Substitute it with spinach, broccoli, or any seasonal vegetable you have on hand. Likewise, feel free to add your choice of protein, whether it's grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

This adaptability not only keeps the recipe exciting but also helps you use up ingredients you already have in your pantry. It’s an excellent way to encourage creativity in the kitchen while ensuring that everyone at the table enjoys their meal.

Flavorful Ingredients

In this recipe, fresh ingredients shine. The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers creates a fragrant base that elevates the overall dish. The addition of diced tomatoes adds a burst of juiciness, while Italian seasoning ties everything together with its aromatic blend of herbs.

Using high-quality olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also packs in healthy fats, making this dish both tasty and nutritious. With each bite, you'll experience the harmonious blend of flavors that make this easy pasta dinner a standout recipe for any weeknight.

Ingredients

Pasta

12 oz spaghetti or any pasta of choice

Sauce and Veggies

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Toppings

Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Mix with Pasta

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing well to combine all the flavors.

Serve

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Why Pasta is a Family Favorite

Pasta is a universally loved dish that appeals to both children and adults alike. Its comforting texture and ability to absorb flavors make it an ideal canvas for a variety of sauces and toppings. This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe leverages these qualities to create a meal that is not only delicious but also fulfilling.

Moreover, pasta is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of ingredients, making it easy to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a light olive oil dressing or a rich tomato sauce, pasta can adapt to meet your meal desires.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

To ensure your pasta turns out perfectly, always start with a large pot of boiling, salted water. This helps the pasta cook evenly and enhances its flavor. Remember to stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent it from sticking together.

Another tip is to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to your sauce to help thicken it and enhance the overall texture of the dish. It’s a simple trick that can elevate your pasta game significantly.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner, you’re in luck! Pasta dishes usually reheat well, making them perfect for lunch the next day. Store any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to help restore moisture. Simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your easy weeknight dinner another day without compromising on taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian as is, just ensure the toppings are also vegetarian-friendly.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

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