Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes

Pasta with Zucchini and Tomatoes: A Summer Feast on Your Plate

When it comes to quick and healthy dishes, pasta with zucchini and tomatoes is an excellent choice. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Moreover, it’s a wonderful way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your daily diet. Next, I will guide you step by step in making this delicious dish!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed:
- 3 small zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 400 g of fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes
- 400 g of pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 50 g of grated parmesan or another hard cheese
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme
- Fresh or dried parsley, for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Brief history:
Pasta with vegetables is a dish that combines culinary tradition with fresh ingredients from the garden. This recipe is inspired by regions where the abundance of vegetables and herbs makes every meal a celebration of flavor. Zucchini and tomatoes are also symbols of summer, bringing a splash of color and taste to every plate.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the zucchinis well. You can slice them into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Chop the garlic finely, and if the tomatoes are fresh, peel and dice them.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and let it brown slightly, being careful not to burn it as it can become bitter. After about 1-2 minutes, add the zucchinis. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become golden and slightly soft.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Once the zucchinis have started to soften, add the diced tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes become sauce and the vegetables are well cooked.

4. Boiling the pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain them well, then drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

5. Mixing the ingredients: When the vegetable sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix well to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed over the pasta. If necessary, you can add a few tablespoons of the pasta cooking water to achieve a creamier consistency.

6. Serving: Divide the pasta into deep plates, sprinkle grated parmesan and chopped green parsley on top, either fresh or dried. These add not only extra flavor but also an attractive appearance.

Serving suggestions: This dish can be enjoyed on its own, but you can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a slice of toasted bread to soak up the delicious sauces. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade pairs perfectly with this dish.

Possible variations:
- You can add other vegetables to the recipe, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to diversify the flavor and enhance its nutritional value.
- If you want a spicier dish, try adding chili flakes to the vegetable sauce.
- Substitute parmesan with a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is not only healthier but also provides an interesting texture.
2. What other herbs can I use? Instead of thyme, you can try fresh basil or oregano for a different flavor.
3. How can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet.

Nutritional aspects:
This recipe is rich in fiber due to the vegetables and pasta, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Zucchini is a good source of potassium and vitamin C, while tomatoes bring antioxidants and lycopene, beneficial for heart health.

With this information and this detailed guide, you are ready to prepare pasta with zucchini and tomatoes that are not only delicious but also healthy. Try this simple and quick recipe on warm summer evenings and let yourself be carried away by Mediterranean flavors!