Pasta Con Zucchini with Ricotta and Parmesan
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
divided
- 2 large or 4 small zucchini
sliced into rounds
- Salt and pepper
- Pinch red pepper flakes
optional
- 4 cloves garlic
minced
- 1/2 cup ricotta
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
optional
Directions
- 1
Cook your pasta according to the package directions, leaving it al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. You may need it later to bring the sauce together.
- 2
Heat half of the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the zucchini, fry until the bottom side is golden, about 3-5 minutes then flip. Season the top with salt and pepper and continue cooking until the second side is golden. Remove from the pan and set aside. You may need to cook the zucchini in two batches. Add more oil to the pan between batches if needed.
- 3
To the pan, add the remaining oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook 1 minute until fragrant. Turn off the heat.
- 4
Add the pasta, lemon, and ricotta to the pan. Toss until creamy, adding in a splash of pasta water if needed. Stir in the zucchini and top with parmesan cheese and parsley.
Pasta Con Zucchini with Ricotta and Parmesan
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 4 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Searching for a comforting, authentic Italian pasta dish that celebrates fresh flavors and comes together quickly? This Pasta Con Zucchini with Ricotta and Parmesan delivers a delightful, easy meal perfect for any night of the week.
This traditional Italian pasta shines by highlighting seasonal zucchini, gently cooked to tender perfection alongside al dente penne. The creamy ricotta and salty Parmesan create a luxurious sauce, brightened by a hint of lemon, making it simple yet profoundly satisfying. With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, you'll have a delicious, homemade meal on the table in no time.
You're in for a truly delightful experience with this Pasta Con Zucchini. Each forkful offers a beautiful balance of tender zucchini, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce. The creamy ricotta and savory Parmesan are delicately seasoned with garlic and a touch of lemon, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that feels both rustic and refined. This adaptable dish is naturally gluten-free friendly and can easily be made vegan, ensuring everyone can enjoy its comforting embrace.
Feeling creative? This versatile Pasta Con Zucchini welcomes your personal touch. To make it entirely vegan, simply swap out the ricotta and Parmesan for your favorite plant-based alternatives—many excellent dairy-free options are available today. For a bit of heat, don't skip the red pepper flakes, or omit them for a milder profile. You can also add more fresh herbs, like basil, for an extra layer of aroma.
This charming pasta dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner when you need something quick and satisfying, or elegant enough to serve guests. Enjoy it simply on its own, perhaps with a crisp green salad.