Tagliatelle with cherry tomatoes and zucchini pesto

Tagliatelle with Cherry Tomatoes and Zucchini Pesto

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Have you ever thought that pasta can be not only delicious but also healthy? I invite you to discover a recipe that will transform your perception of pasta and, in particular, zucchini! This recipe for tagliatelle with cherry tomatoes and zucchini pesto is a wonderful choice for both lunch and dinner, being quick, simple, and full of flavors.

A Short Story about the Recipe

It is said that pasta recipes were created as a way to gather family around the table. With deep roots in culinary traditions, pasta is a symbol of joy and community. This recipe combines simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a dish that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide important nutritional benefits.

Ingredients

For the pasta:
- 500 g tagliatelle
- 300 g cherry tomatoes
- 2 pieces of mozzarella cheese
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the zucchini pesto:
- 5 zucchinis (cut into small pieces)
- 1 cup (of coffee) grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (the same one used for measuring parmesan) olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 5 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Tomatoes

Start by preheating the oven to 220°C. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in an ovenproof dish. Drizzle with a little olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. These tomatoes will acquire an intense and sweet flavor during baking. Let them roast for about 12 minutes.

2. Preparing the Zucchini Pesto

While the tomatoes are roasting, take care of the pesto. Place the chopped zucchinis in a blender, along with the parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and mint. Blend everything until you obtain a smooth paste, similar to a puree. This pesto will add a fresh and vibrant note to your dish.

3. Cooking the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water is boiling, add the tagliatelle and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, they boil for about 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure to cook them al dente so that they retain their texture.

4. Combining the Ingredients

When the pasta is ready, drain it and reserve a cup of the cooking water. In a deep skillet, add the zucchini pesto and heat it over low heat. Add the cooked tagliatelle and mix well to coat them with the pesto. If necessary, you can add a little of the reserved water to achieve a creamier consistency.

5. Finishing the Dish

After the pasta is well mixed with the pesto, add the roasted tomatoes and the mozzarella cheese cut into small cubes. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients. Let the dish sit on the heat for 1-2 minutes to warm through evenly.

Serving

Serve the tagliatelle with cherry tomatoes and zucchini pesto immediately, garnishing with fresh mint or parsley leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine or fresh lemonade.

Practical Tips

- Zucchini: Choose young and firm zucchinis to achieve a pesto with a smooth texture and fresh taste. If you enjoy stronger flavors, you can add a few chili flakes to the pesto.
- Cheese: If you are a cheese fan, feel free to add more parmesan or even feta cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Vegan Option: You can make this pesto without cheese, using nutritional yeast for an umami flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals thanks to the zucchinis and tomatoes. Zucchinis are an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, while tomatoes are full of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that contributes to heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to any type of pasta you prefer, from spaghetti to penne or fettuccine.
- Can I make the pesto in advance? Yes, the pesto can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Be sure to cover it with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.
- What other toppings can I use? You can add roasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or even a few olives for a Mediterranean touch.

Conclusion

These tagliatelle with cherry tomatoes and zucchini pesto are not only a healthy choice but also a culinary feast full of colors and flavors. Try them, and you'll discover how easy it can be to enjoy a delicious, quick, and healthy meal. Bon appétit!