Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Summer Pasta with Zucchini, Cherry Tomatoes, and Parmesan Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 33 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy Summer Pasta is a delightful and fresh vegetarian meal featuring tender pasta tossed with sautéed zucchini, sweet corn, and juicy cherry tomatoes all coated in a light, velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for summertime when fresh produce is at its peak, this recipe is quick, easy, and comforting.

Ingredients

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetables

  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes

Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.
  2. Sauté garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Cook zucchini and corn: Add the sliced zucchini and corn kernels to the skillet. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
  4. Add tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  5. Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it becomes smooth and slightly thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes. If needed, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  6. Toss with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly with the creamy sauce.
  7. Season: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp if you want to boost the protein content of the dish.
  • Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce thickness as needed.
  • This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as the fresh vegetables and cream sauce taste their best immediately after cooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/creamy-summer-pasta-with-zucchini-cherry-tomatoes-and-parmesan-recipe/