Spaghetti with zucchini and tomatoes

Zucchini and Tomato Spaghetti – a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. This dish brings together fresh and aromatic ingredients, transforming an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe History
The zucchini and tomato spaghetti recipe has its roots in Mediterranean culinary traditions, where fresh ingredients and natural flavors are the norm. It is a dish that reflects the simplicity and joy of cooking at home, using seasonal vegetables and herbs. This combination of spaghetti and vegetables is not only delicious but also adds a touch of freshness to the plate.

Ingredients
- 300 g spaghetti
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 300 g fresh tomatoes
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan, for serving

Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready:
1. Wash the tomatoes and zucchinis well under cold running water.
2. Cut the tomatoes into small cubes, making sure to remove the large seeds if necessary.
3. For the zucchinis, cut off the ends and then slice them into sticks about 1 cm thick. This is an important step as the sticks will cook evenly, maintaining their crunchy texture.

Step by Step: Cooking Zucchini and Tomato Spaghetti
1. Boiling the spaghetti: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the zucchini and tomato sauce: While the spaghetti is boiling, take a large skillet and heat the two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the whole garlic cloves (or minced if you prefer a stronger flavor) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden. Then, remove them from the skillet as we only want the aroma.

3. Adding the zucchinis: In the same skillet, add the zucchini sticks. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. The zucchinis should become slightly soft but still retain a crunchy texture.

4. Including the tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to meld and help the tomatoes break down slightly, forming a delicious sauce.

5. Finishing the dish: After the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Add the dried oregano and stir a little more.

6. Serving: Serve the spaghetti hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan on top. The Parmesan will add a savory note and a pleasant contrast to the tomatoes and zucchinis. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.

Tips and Tricks
- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms, adding them to the sauce. You can also replace the Parmesan with feta cheese for a saltier note.
- Flavoring: If you like a spicier taste, add some chopped chili pepper or chili flakes during cooking.
- Sauce consistency: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a bit of tomato sauce during cooking.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, while tomatoes contain antioxidants beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the spaghetti provides complex carbohydrates, which will give you sustained energy.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of spaghetti should I use?
You can use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option or even gluten-free spaghetti if you have an intolerance.

2. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini and tomato sauce a few hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, just heat it up and add the cooked spaghetti.

3. What can I pair with this recipe?
Zucchini and tomato spaghetti pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled white wine or fresh lemonade. You can also add a simple green salad with lemon for a balanced meal.

This zucchini and tomato spaghetti recipe is an excellent choice for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table! Bon appétit!