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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
Pasta with Pepperoni and Vegetables
comfortingquickItalian-Americanporktendercrispyweeknightpasta

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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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