Pasta with Pepperoni and Vegetables
A quick weeknight pasta loaded with crispy pepperoni, tender zucchini, and sweet bell pepper in a light garlicky tomato sauce. Simple, satisfying, and ready in about 30 minutes.
- Total time
- 30 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 480
- Protein
- 18g
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 4 oz pepperoni
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 zucchini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- 2
While the pasta cooks, slice the 4 oz pepperoni into thin strips. Heat the 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pepperoni and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- 3
In the same skillet, add the 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 sliced bell pepper, and 1 sliced zucchini. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes.
- 4
Add the 1 cup cherry tomatoes and 1 tsp salt. Cook until the tomatoes burst and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes. If the pan looks dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- 5
Add the cooked pasta and crispy pepperoni to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a little pasta water as needed to create a light sauce that coats the pasta. Serve hot, with black pepper or red pepper flakes if desired.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed. Divide among bowls and enjoy immediately.
Tools you’ll need
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
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