Tuck into one-pan summer courgette and tomato pasta – with little planning and even less expense

If you’re on a tight budget but are looking for ideas for wholesome, filling and nutritious dinners, this one’s a must.

It's quick, it's budget-friendly, and you'll only need one pan for the sauce while the pasta cooks. Perfect for those evenings when you don't fancy spending ages in the kitchen.

What you'll need

• pasta/spaghetti 
• courgettes
• cherry tomatoes
• garlic
• olive oil
• fresh basil
• grated cheese
• salt and black pepper
• chilli flakes if you like a little heat

How to make it

• Get your pasta cooking while you slice the courgettes and tomatoes.
• Cook the courgettes in a little olive oil until they're starting to turn golden, then stir in the garlic. Add the tomatoes and let them soften until they become lovely and saucy.
• Drain the pasta, keeping a splash of the cooking water, then toss it into the pan. Add a little of the pasta water if it needs loosening, then stir through the basil and plenty of grated cheese.
• Finish with a good grind of black pepper and serve straight away

This recipe is brilliant for using up whatever you've got in the fridge. Throw in some spinach, peas or sweetcorn, swap the basil for parsley, or use whatever cheese needs finishing.

It's one of those dinners that's hard to get wrong, and that's exactly why we love it!