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Creamy Paccheri with Speck and Zucchini

17/11/2023

Paccheri is a type of pasta that is typically from the Campania region, much loved for its ability to hold sauces. The recipe for creamy paccheri with speck and zucchini is a perfect blend of delicate and smoked flavors. Here’s how to make them.

Ingredients

  • 350 g of paccheri
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 150 g of sliced speck
  • 200 ml of cooking cream
  • 1 small onion
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (to taste)
  • Fresh basil (a few leaves for garnish)

Preparation

  1. Bring the water for the pasta to a boil in a large pot, salting it once it starts to boil and cook the paccheri following the package instructions to al dente.

  2. Meanwhile, wash and cut the zucchinis into slices or half-moons not too thick so that they cook evenly and quickly.

  3. Cut the speck into strips or cubes, depending on preference.

  4. Peel and finely chop the onion, then soften it in a large pan with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, over medium-low heat, to make it translucent without burning.

  5. Add the zucchinis to the pan with the onion and sauté for a few minutes, until they start to become tender. Then add the speck and let it sauté to release its smoky aroma.

  6. Pour the cooking cream into the pan with the zucchini and speck, mix everything together and let it cook for a few minutes until the cream slightly reduces. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Drain the paccheri al dente and transfer them to the pan with the sauce, stirring gently to blend the pasta with the zucchini and speck cream.

  8. Serve the paccheri hot right away, garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and a few leaves of fresh basil to add a touch of color and freshness.

Curiosity

Speck is a deli meat typical of the South Tyrol regions and I recommend trying to find the PDO version, which guarantees superior flavor and quality. The contrast between the slightly smoky taste of the speck and the sweetness of the zucchini makes this dish particularly harmonious.