Description
Summer Pasta With Zucchini, Ricotta and Basil is the epitome of vibrant, seasonal cooking. This quick and delightful dish combines fresh zucchini, creamy ricotta, and aromatic basil, making it a perfect choice for warm days. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a casual picnic, this pasta recipe shines with its simple ingredients and bright flavors. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. Ideal for gatherings or weeknight dinners, this pasta is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 2 pounds zucchini
- Garlic cloves
- 1 ounce fresh basil
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- Crushed red pepper
- Lemon zest
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot. In a skillet, sauté diced onion in olive oil until softened.
- Add sliced zucchini, seasoning with salt and pepper; cook until tender.
- Meanwhile, make a basil paste using garlic, fresh basil, and olive oil in a mortar or mini food processor.
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve some cooking water before draining.
- Combine the cooked pasta with zucchini in the skillet. Add ricotta, crushed red pepper, lemon zest, and reserved pasta water; stir until creamy.
- Quickly fold in the basil paste and half of the grated cheese; adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately garnished with additional cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg