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Simplest Zucchini Parmesan Pasta

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A delightful and healthy dish featuring zucchini and rich cheeses combined with pasta, perfect for any weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta, any cut works
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3–4 medium zucchini or yellow summer squash, shredded or chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • Chili flakes, to taste
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated pecorino or manchego cheese
  • 1 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, reserving 1 1/4 cups of the cooking water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini, garlic, thyme, chili flakes, salt, and pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until zucchini is golden.
  3. Mix in salted butter and mash the zucchini until it becomes a chunky sauce. Stir in reserved pasta water and simmer.
  4. Add the drained pasta, parmesan, and pecorino or manchego cheese to the skillet, tossing until the cheese melts and the pasta is well coated, adjusting the thickness with extra pasta water as needed.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil, then serve hot topped with extra basil and a sprinkle of pepper.

Notes

For a vegan option, use vegan cheese and butter. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini, pasta, vegetarian, healthy, easy dinner

Find it online: https://alexandrarecipes.com/simplest-zucchini-parmesan-pasta/