Spaghetti with tomatoes, zucchini, and cheese

Summer dessert or a quick and healthy lunch? Spaghetti with tomatoes, zucchini, and cheese is a perfect choice! This simple and delicious recipe combines the fresh flavors of vegetables with the creamy texture of cheese, providing both satisfaction and essential nutrients. You'll find it to be a wonderful option for hot days, as well as a comforting dish for cool evenings.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 can of tomatoes in tomato juice (about 400 g)
- 250 g cheese (optional: a smoked variety for a unique taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan, for serving

Recipe story:
Spaghetti with tomatoes and zucchini is a perfect example of a dish that has evolved over time, incorporating the best seasonal ingredients. This simple yet flavorful recipe reflects the philosophy of using fresh and easily accessible products. The zucchini, with its delicate texture, adds a touch of freshness, while the tomatoes bring a rich taste and vibrant color. The melted and creamy cheese perfectly complements this dish.

Preparation steps:

1. Boil the spaghetti:
In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions (usually between 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain and reserve a cup of the cooking water.

2. Prepare the zucchini:
Meanwhile, wash the zucchini and cut it into sticks or cubes. This will help it cook evenly and quickly. If you wish, you can also use a yellow zucchini or a mix of zucchinis for a more colorful appearance.

3. Sauté the zucchini:
In a large skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the zucchini and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and slightly golden. This is the perfect time to add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

4. Add the tomatoes:
Once the zucchini has softened, pour the can of tomatoes into the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes. This will allow the tomatoes to perfectly blend with the zucchini and reveal all the flavors.

5. Incorporate the cheese:
After the sauce has thickened slightly, add the cheese. You can choose to grate it or cut it into cubes, depending on your preference. Stir until the cheese starts to melt, creating a creamy and delicious sauce.

6. Finalize the dish:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, mixing well to integrate all the ingredients. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

7. Serve:
Serve the spaghetti hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan on top. A garnish of fresh basil or parsley can add an extra touch of flavor and color to the dish.

Practical tips:
- When choosing canned tomatoes, opt for those in tomato juice, without additives, for a more natural taste.
- Zucchini can be replaced with other vegetables, such as red bell pepper or mushrooms, to vary the recipe.
- If you want a spicier dish, add chili flakes or a bit of crushed garlic to the olive oil at the beginning.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Zucchini is rich in fiber, which aids digestion, while tomatoes provide essential antioxidants and vitamin C. The cheese adds protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can replace spaghetti with whole grain pasta, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta, depending on your preferences.

2. What side dishes go well with this dish?
A fresh arugula salad or a Caprese salad are excellent choices that complement this meal well.

3. How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian, but you can omit the cheese for a vegan version and use a plant-based cheese substitute.

Try this spaghetti recipe with tomatoes, zucchini, and cheese and enjoy a simple, quick, and flavorful dish! No matter the occasion, this spaghetti will bring a smile to your face and those of your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!