Description
Creamy zucchini spaghetti delight weaves Mediterranean magic into a light, nutritious pasta experience. Parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs dance together, creating a quick summer meal that promises delicious comfort for hungry souls.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 6 medium zucchini, thinly sliced (about 2 ½ pounds or 1.13 kilograms)
- 2 cups (approximately 200 grams) grated parmesan cheese
Oils and Seasonings:
- ½ quart (473 milliliters or 2 cups) sunflower or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 cup chopped fresh basil
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Heat sunflower oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature, carefully layering thinly sliced zucchini to crisp and caramelize until they transform into a rich golden hue, approximately 5-6 minutes. Transfer the fried zucchini onto paper towels to eliminate excess oil.
- In a mixing vessel, delicately fold the golden zucchini slices with freshly chopped basil leaves and a whisper of kosher salt. Anoint the mixture with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, gently tossing to harmonize the flavors.
- Ignite a substantial pot of water and submerge the spaghetti, cooking until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Before straining, extract and preserve approximately two cups of the starchy pasta water, which will become crucial for creating a silky sauce.
- Transfer the drained spaghetti into a spacious skillet positioned over medium-low heat. Introduce the seasoned zucchini mixture, continuously rotating and folding the ingredients to ensure comprehensive integration. Incrementally incorporate the reserved pasta water, stirring until a luxurious, creamy consistency emerges.
- Gradually shower the grated parmesan cheese over the pasta, persistently tossing to achieve a uniform coating. Assess the sauce’s texture and season with additional salt if required, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Crown the dish with an elegant final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Plate the spaghetti immediately while piping hot, accompanied by a complementary side of additional parmesan cheese for enthusiasts seeking an enhanced cheesy experience.
Notes
- Prepping zucchini requires careful slicing and golden-brown frying to unlock maximum flavor and texture.
- Reserve pasta water as a secret weapon for creating a silky, creamy sauce that perfectly coats every spaghetti strand.
- Tossing pasta continuously ensures even distribution of zucchini, basil, and parmesan for a harmonious culinary experience.
- Extra virgin olive oil acts as a flavor enhancer, adding richness and a smooth finish to this delightful dish.
- Fresh basil brings a vibrant, aromatic touch that elevates the entire recipe from simple to spectacular.
- Serving with additional parmesan allows guests to customize their plate and enjoy personal cheese preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 614
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 28g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg