Pasta with zucchini and meat

Pasta with Zucchini and Meat - a comforting and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Today, I invite you to discover a recipe for pasta with zucchini and meat, a savory and hearty combination, perfect for a family dinner or with friends. This recipe blends the rich flavors of ground meat with the freshness of zucchini, all covered by a creamy béchamel sauce that perfectly binds the ingredients. It is a dish that will bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart!

A bit of history

Pasta with zucchini and meat has an interesting history, rooted in traditional cuisines that rely on simple and natural ingredients. These dishes were often cooked in households that wanted to provide nourishing meals using what they had on hand. The combination of pasta with vegetables and meat became popular due to its versatility, and each recipe can be adapted according to preferences and available ingredients.

Necessary ingredients

- 2 medium onions
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 500 g ground meat (beef, pork, or chicken)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 250 g peeled tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 200 g penne pasta
- 500 g zucchini
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 200 ml vegetable broth
- 200 ml milk
- 100 g grated cheese
- 1 egg yolk

Step by Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by chopping the onion into small cubes. This will allow the onion to sauté evenly and release its flavors. Also, prepare all the other ingredients to have everything on hand.

Step 2: Cooking the meat

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the ground meat, breaking it up gently with a spatula to avoid clumping. Cook until the meat is well browned.

Helpful tip: Choose quality meat for better flavor. You can use ground beef for a heartier dish or chicken for a lighter option.

Step 3: Adding the spices

Once the meat is cooked, add salt, pepper, oregano, sweet paprika, peeled tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, so the flavors can blend.

Step 4: Boiling the pasta

Meanwhile, boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente, meaning they should be slightly firm to the bite. After boiling, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and let them drain.

Step 5: Preparing the zucchini

Wash the zucchini and cut them into small cubes. In a separate skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil and add the zucchini. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become slightly golden. Season with salt to enhance the flavor.

Step 6: Preparing the béchamel sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat and add the flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Then, gradually add the vegetable broth and milk, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce over low heat for 3-4 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper, then add half of the grated cheese and stir until it melts.

Helpful tip: If you want an even creamier sauce, you can use whole milk or add a tablespoon of cream.

Step 7: Finishing the dish

In a baking dish, layer the ingredients successively: start with a layer of pasta, followed by zucchini, then meat, and repeat until you finish the ingredients. Finally, pour the béchamel sauce over everything and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 8: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the dish for 30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Step 9: Serving

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves for an extra touch of freshness. This main course pairs perfectly with a green salad or grilled vegetables.

Possible variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or replace the meat with a vegetarian option, using tofu or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, to achieve an even richer flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This dish is an excellent source of protein due to the ground meat and cheese, while zucchini adds a significant amount of vitamins and minerals. Pasta provides complex carbohydrates, essential for energy. Overall, it is a balanced dish that can be part of a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice to add fiber and additional nutrients.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes to the meat sauce or serve with chili sauce.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and bake it on the day you want to serve it.

4. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

Conclusion

Pasta with zucchini and meat is a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal, full of flavors and textures. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply for a family dinner, this recipe will surely become a favorite. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and add a personal touch to your recipe. Bon appétit!