Penne with zucchini and parmesan

Penne with Zucchini and Parmesan - A Simple and Satisfying Recipe

I propose a delicious and comforting recipe: Penne with zucchini and parmesan. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also very versatile, perfect for a light yet filling dinner. The zucchini adds a fine texture and a subtle flavor, while the parmesan gives it a touch of refinement. Let's embark on this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 350 g penne pasta (or tagliatelle, if you prefer)
- 300 g zucchini
- 3 eggs
- 40 g grated parmesan (plus extra for serving, if desired)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the zucchini well under cold running water. Cut them into small cubes, about 1-2 cm, for even cooking. This step is essential as the zucchini will add not only flavor but also a splash of color to your dish.

2. Cooking the zucchini:
In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini cubes and let them cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The zucchini will become soft and slightly golden. After 10 minutes, sprinkle with salt and reduce the heat to low, continuing to cook for another 5 minutes. This step will enhance the flavor of the zucchini.

3. Preparing the eggs:
In a separate bowl, whisk the 3 eggs with a whisk or fork, adding the grated parmesan. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. Add pepper to taste. This step will not only add creaminess to the dish but also a savory flavor.

4. Boiling the pasta:
Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid sticking. When al dente, drain the pasta but reserve a cup of the cooking water.

5. Finishing the dish:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the zucchini. Pour the egg and parmesan mixture over the pasta and zucchini, adding 2 tablespoons of the reserved water. Stir everything well over low heat until the eggs set, creating a fine and creamy sauce. This step is important because the eggs need to be cooked but not overcooked, to maintain the dish's velvety texture.

6. Serving:
Serve the pasta immediately, sprinkling additional grated parmesan on top if desired. A garnish of freshly chopped parsley can add a touch of freshness and color.

Helpful tips:

- You can experiment with different vegetables: by adding cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even mushrooms, you can transform the dish and add various flavors.
- If you like a spicier taste, add a quarter teaspoon of chili flakes to the egg mixture.
- If you don’t have parmesan on hand, you can use another type of hard cheese, such as pecorino.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in nutrients! Zucchini is an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Additionally, whole grain pasta can add extra nutritional value, providing complex carbohydrates that will give you long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Sure! This recipe is very flexible. You can use any type of pasta you prefer, including whole grain or gluten-free.

2. How can I make the recipe lower in calories?
You can reduce the amount of oil and parmesan or replace the eggs with a mixture of tofu or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A green salad with a light lemon dressing and sparkling water with lemon are excellent accompaniments to complete this meal.

Personal notes:
This recipe for penne with zucchini and parmesan reminds me of quiet evenings spent with family, when I discovered that simple food can also be very tasty. I recommend bringing your friends around the table and enjoying this culinary creation together.

In conclusion, don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on this recipe! Whether you choose to add your favorite ingredients or experiment with spices, every meal can become a true celebration of flavor. Enjoy your meal!