Zucchini on a bed of spaghetti

Zucchini on a bed of spaghetti: a delicious and sophisticated recipe for a memorable meal

Cooking is an art, and today I invite you to discover a recipe that combines the delicious flavors of zucchini with the perfect texture of spaghetti. This zucchini on a bed of spaghetti recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds but also an ingenious way to incorporate vegetables into your daily diet. With a rich history in international cuisine, spaghetti and zucchini are the perfect ingredients to create a dish that will impress family and friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 pack of spaghetti (approximately 400 g)
- 2 large, ripe, juicy tomatoes
- 3 stalks of fresh green onion
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 150 g of pork pastrama (or a vegetarian alternative, if preferred)
- 100 g of flour
- 3 eggs
- 1 medium, fresh zucchini
- 100 ml of oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks for assembly

Recipe preparation:

1. Boiling the spaghetti: Start by bringing a large pot of water with a pinch of salt to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, depending on the type of spaghetti. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the zucchini: Meanwhile, take the zucchini, peel it, and cut it into rounds about 1 cm thick. Sprinkle salt on the rounds and let them sit for a few minutes to remove excess water. This will help achieve a crispy texture after frying.

3. Breading the zucchini: Prepare a bowl with flour and another with beaten eggs. In the meantime, heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Take each zucchini round, dip it in flour, then in the beaten egg, and carefully place it in the pan. Fry them until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

4. Preparing the sauce: In another pan, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the finely chopped green onion and crushed garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, add the diced pastrama and peeled, diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a delicious sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assembling the plate: Now that all the components are ready, it's time to assemble the dish. On a large plate, place two rounds of zucchini, then use toothpicks to twist the spaghetti and secure it between the rounds of zucchini. You can add more layers if desired. On the side, pour the tomato sauce with pastrama for added flavor.

6. Serving: Serve the dish warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables. You can also drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor.

Practical tips:

- For a vegetarian option, replace the pastrama with tofu or mushrooms, which will add extra texture and flavor.
- If you want to add a more intense taste, you can sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- You can also experiment with spices, adding oregano or basil to the sauce for a Mediterranean aroma.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe is an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Zucchini is high in water and low in calories, making it ideal for a healthy diet. Tomatoes are a rich source of antioxidants, while pork pastrama provides necessary proteins for the body.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use whole wheat spaghetti? Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is an excellent option to add more fiber and nutrients.
- How can I store leftovers? The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 1-2 days in an airtight container. I recommend reheating the zucchini separately to maintain its crispy texture.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices to complement the meal.

This zucchini on a bed of spaghetti recipe is not just a simple dish, but also a way to impress your guests with an elegant presentation and healthy ingredients. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will bring a smile to everyone's face. Enjoy!