Penne with Zucchini and Basil

Savor the simplicity and freshness of Penne with Zucchini and Basil, a light yet flavor-packed pasta dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Featuring tender penne coated in a delicate garlic-infused olive oil sauce, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of sautéed zucchini and the aromatic brightness of fresh basil leaves. A touch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while grated Parmesan cheese lends a creamy, savory finish. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this easy vegetarian pasta recipe is a celebration of seasonal ingredients and effortless cooking. Serve it warm with extra Parmesan and basil for a dish that's as visually stunning as it is delicious. Keywords: penne with zucchini, basil pasta recipe, quick vegetarian pasta, easy zucchini recipes, garlic olive oil sauce.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 medium zucchini
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 large garlic cloves
• 10 leaves fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese
• 0.25 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 cup pasta cooking water

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, wash the zucchini and slice them into thin half-moons. Mince the garlic cloves and set both aside.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4

Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned.

Step 5

Stir in the salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1 minute to incorporate the seasonings.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to combine with the zucchini.

Step 7

Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring to help create a light sauce. Use as much water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 8

Remove the skillet from heat and tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces, tossing them into the pasta. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until well combined.

Step 9

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1143.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2147.0

Total Fat 77.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 24.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 88.9mg	0%
Sodium 6739.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 290.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.6g	0%
Total Sugars 27.2g
Protein 80.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 996.8mg	0%
Iron 14.3mg	0%
Potassium 1649.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.1%

Protein: 14.7%

Carbs: 53.2%