Creamy Zucchini Pasta

Creamy pasta with zucchini is a simple and creamy dish that combines the sweetness of zucchini with the richness of cream. It is a quick dish to prepare, ideal for a lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 320g of pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
• 2 medium zucchini
• 200 ml of cooking cream
• 1 clove of garlic
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese to taste (optional)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Preparation

1. Wash the zucchini and slice them into thin rounds or julienne, depending on your preference.
2. In a large pan, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and add the peeled garlic clove. Let the garlic brown to flavor the oil, then remove it.
3. Add the sliced zucchini to the pan and sauté over medium-high heat until they become slightly golden. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Meanwhile, bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the instructions for an al dente result.
5. Once the zucchini are ready, lower the heat and add the cream. Let it cook on low heat for a few minutes, until the cream starts to thicken slightly. If you wish, you can add a pinch of nutmeg at this point.
6. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the zucchini and cream. Toss everything together for a couple of minutes so the pasta absorbs the sauce well.
7. Serve hot with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like, some fresh basil leaves.

Curiosity

Pasta with cream and zucchini is a classic example of how Italian cuisine can be both simple and surprising. The use of cream can vary from region to region: in the north, a generous amount is common, while in the south, pasta dishes with vegetables and fresh tomato are more frequently found. In any case, the creaminess of the cream perfectly complements the sweetness of the zucchini, creating a delicious balance.