Dinner

Tomato, Courgette, Cream & Oregano Pasta Recipe

ByHailey Reed November 20, 2025November 20, 2025

Introduction

This creamy tomato, courgette, and oregano pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and rich cream creates a comforting and satisfying meal in minutes.

A white bowl filled with three layers of penne pasta coated in a rich, thick red tomato sauce with visible green herb pieces scattered throughout; the top layer is sprinkled with finely grated white cheese, adding a soft texture on top of the pasta. A silver fork is placed inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is set on a purple cloth on a white marbled surface, next to a white plate holding a block of yellow cheese and a metal grater with cheese shavings. There is also a small white dish with cracked black pepper beside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 courgette, finely chopped
1 tsp chilli flakes (optional)
2 tbsp tomato purée
400g can chopped tomatoes
400g penne
150ml double cream
15g oregano, chopped
50g Grana Padano, grated

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Stir in the chopped courgette, chilli flakes if using, tomato purée, and chopped tomatoes. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the courgette is tender.
Step 3: Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little of the cooking water, and set aside.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and stir the double cream into the tomato sauce. Warm through for 5 minutes until slightly thickened, then season with salt and pepper to taste, and add the chopped oregano.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce along with a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed. Toss well to coat evenly.
Step 6: Serve topped with the grated Grana Padano cheese for a delicious finishing touch.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, sauté some chopped bell peppers with the onions and garlic.
If you prefer more spice, increase the chilli flakes or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Use fresh oregano if available, as it adds a more vibrant herbal note to the dish.
Substitute Grana Padano with Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a different cheese twist.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.