Pasta with zucchini and potatoes

Pasta with Zucchini and Potatoes: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for the Whole Family

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Total time: 35 minutes Servings: 4

In search of a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal, the recipe for pasta with zucchini and potatoes proves to be an excellent choice! This simple dish, made with natural ingredients, is not only healthy but also very tasty. It can quickly become one of your family's favorites, just as it is for me, especially for my little girl who loves the combination of vegetables and pasta!

A Brief History of the Recipe

This recipe has deep roots in summer culinary traditions when fresh vegetables are at their peak. Zucchini, with their delicate texture and subtle flavor, are often combined with other seasonal vegetables to create simple yet satisfying dishes. In this recipe, potatoes add a note of consistency, while zucchini flowers provide an elegant appearance and a distinct aroma.

Basic Ingredients

- 4 small zucchinis with flowers (or 2 larger ones without flowers) - 2 medium potatoes - 4-5 zucchini flowers - 1 large onion - 50 g grated parmesan (or more, to taste) - 3-4 tablespoons olive oil - 2-3 handfuls of short pasta (baby spaghetti or your preferred type) - Salt, to taste

Tips for Ingredients

- Choose fresh zucchinis with smooth skin and no blemishes. The zucchini flowers should be open and vibrant, indicating they are fresh. - Red or new potatoes are ideal for this recipe as they have a creamier texture. - Use freshly grated parmesan for an intense flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Vegetables: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into cubes about 1 cm. This will ensure even cooking. Wash the zucchinis under cold running water and slice them into rounds about 1 cm thick. Clean the zucchini flowers by removing the stems and pistils. Cut them into strips about 1 cm wide.

2. Sautéing the Onion: Peel and finely chop the onion. In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.

3. Adding the Vegetables: Once the onion is ready, add the potato cubes and zucchini rounds. Gently stir to combine the ingredients and let them sauté together for 2-3 minutes.

4. Boiling the Vegetables: Add 1.5 liters of water to the skillet, along with salt to taste. Let everything boil over moderate heat until the potatoes and zucchinis become tender, about 10-15 minutes.

5. Cooking the Pasta: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the pasta. Boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finishing the Dish: When the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Finally, add the grated parmesan and mix well to incorporate it into the dish.

7. Serving: Divide the portion onto plates and, if desired, drizzle a splash of raw olive oil for added flavor. You can garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves for a more attractive presentation.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to diversify the taste and texture. - If you want a spicier dish, you can add chili flakes during the onion sautéing. - This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or fresh lemonade.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is rich in fiber due to the vegetables, provides a considerable amount of essential vitamins and minerals, and is a good source of complex carbohydrates from the pasta. The calories are moderate, varying depending on the amount of oil and parmesan used. A serving of pasta with zucchini and potatoes has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can experiment with different types of pasta, including whole grain or gluten-free pasta, to suit your dietary preferences.

2. How can I make the recipe vegan? You can replace the parmesan with nutritional yeast for a similar taste but without animal products.

3. What other spices can I add? Herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary can add extra flavor. Make sure to add them during the onion sautéing to release their aromas.

4. Is the recipe suitable for children? Absolutely! This recipe is packed with vegetables, easy to chew, and has a pleasant taste for little ones.

Now that you have all the necessary details, you are ready to delight your family with this delicious recipe for pasta with zucchini and potatoes. Cook with love and enjoy every bite!