Description
A quick and delicious zucchini pesto pasta featuring tender zucchini, fresh basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy-to-make meal is fresh, flavorful, and can be ready on your table in just 30 minutes, perfect for a satisfying vegetarian Italian dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup basil pesto
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
- Optional: toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water and set aside.
- Sauté the Zucchini: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and has a light golden-brown color.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn, to release its aroma and flavor.
- Toss Pasta with Pesto: Add the drained pasta to a large bowl or directly into the skillet. Stir in the basil pesto along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the pesto sauce.
- Combine Zucchini and Cheese: Gently fold the sautéed zucchini and grated Parmesan cheese into the pasta, mixing evenly to combine all the flavors.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Add cherry tomatoes or fresh spinach to the dish for an extra boost of vegetables and color.
- For additional protein, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs well with this pasta.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
