Tagliatelle with zucchini and bell pepper

Tagliatelle with Zucchini and Bell Pepper - A Simple and Tasty Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

I invite you to discover a delicious pasta recipe that combines the fresh flavors of vegetables with the fine textures of tagliatelle. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, making it perfect for a family dinner or a light lunch. Let's venture together into this culinary universe!

A Brief History of Pasta

Pasta is a staple food in many culinary cultures, often considered a symbol of hospitality. Over time, Italians have embraced this ingredient, creating an impressive variety of recipes. It can be combined with almost any ingredient, from fresh vegetables to rich sauces. In this recipe, we will focus on a light and healthy combination that will add flavor to your meal.

Necessary Ingredients

- 200 g tagliatelle pasta
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 red bell pepper
- 100 g pitted black olives
- 1 medium onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Practical Tips About Ingredients

- Tagliatelle pasta: Choose quality pasta, preferably made from durum wheat, for better texture. It absorbs sauces better.
- Zucchini: Opt for young zucchinis with smooth skin, as they are more tender and have a sweeter taste.
- Bell pepper: The red bell pepper adds a splash of color and sweetness. You can also experiment with yellow or green peppers for variety.
- Olives: Choose quality black olives, as they will add a slightly salty note and intense flavor to the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic will provide an irresistible aroma. If you enjoy a stronger taste, you can add two cloves.

Preparation Technique

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and cook the tagliatelle according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the pasta is boiling, prepare the vegetables. Peel the zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise, then into thin rounds. Chop the onion finely and dice the bell pepper.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the whole clove of garlic to extract its flavor. Remove it from the skillet as soon as it turns golden to avoid bitterness.

4. Onion and zucchini: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the zucchinis and bell pepper. Let them sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finalizing the dish: After the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet over the sautéed vegetables. Mix well to combine the flavors. Finally, add the black olives and let it cook for a few more minutes to heat through.

6. Serving: Serve the tagliatelle with zucchini and bell pepper immediately, drizzled with a bit of olive oil for extra flavor. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese if you like.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra flavor boost, you can add fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. If you prefer a spicier version, sprinkle some chili flakes.

This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade, offering a pleasant contrast to the vegetable flavors.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This tagliatelle recipe with zucchini and bell pepper contains approximately 400-450 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and olives used. It is a meal rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Zucchini is low in calories but high in water and nutrients, while olives provide healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute tagliatelle with other types of pasta, such as penne or spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package.

2. How can I make this dish vegan? This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, just ensure you don't add cheese.

3. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! You can experiment with zucchini, carrots, or even spinach, depending on your preferences.

4. What is the best way to store leftovers? If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can last up to 2 days.

So, embark on the cooking adventure and enjoy this simple and delicious dish! Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a quick lunch, tagliatelle with zucchini and bell pepper will surely bring smiles and satisfaction!