This zucchini and feta pasta is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines tender zucchini with creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a light pasta. The addition of garlic bread pangrattato adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor.
The recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Fresh Ingredients for a Flavorful Dish
The key to a delightful zucchini and feta pasta lies in the quality of its ingredients.
Using fresh zucchinis ensures a tender texture and vibrant flavor.
Pairing them with creamy feta cheese adds a rich, salty contrast that elevates the dish.
Don’t forget to include fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness that ties everything together.
These simple yet high-quality ingredients create a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this pasta dish is straightforward and quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Start by cooking your choice of pasta until al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite.
While the pasta cooks, sauté the sliced zucchini in olive oil until golden and tender.
This step not only enhances the zucchini’s natural sweetness but also adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Combining these elements creates a harmonious blend that is both comforting and delicious.
The Crunch Factor: Garlic Pangrattato
A standout feature of this dish is the crispy garlic pangrattato.
This simple mixture of breadcrumbs and minced garlic, sautéed until golden, adds an irresistible crunch.
Sprinkling it over the pasta provides a delightful contrast to the creamy feta and tender zucchini.
This textural element transforms the dish from ordinary to extraordinary, making each bite a little celebration.
Serving Suggestions for an Inviting Meal
When it comes to serving, presentation plays a significant role.
Twirl the pasta elegantly in a bowl, showcasing the colorful zucchini and crumbled feta.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor.
Pairing the dish with a glass of white wine enhances the dining experience, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Setting the table with rustic elements adds to the charm, making it a perfect meal for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Nutrition and Dietary Considerations
This zucchini and feta pasta is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Each serving provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome choice.
With approximately 350 calories per serving, it fits well into various dietary plans.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences, such as using gluten-free pasta or a dairy-free feta alternative.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Repeating
With its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and fresh flavors, this zucchini and feta pasta is sure to become a favorite.
Its simplicity and adaptability make it a versatile option for any occasion.
Whether enjoyed on a casual weeknight or served at a gathering, this dish promises to impress and satisfy.
Delicious Zucchini and Feta Pasta Recipe
This pasta dish features sautéed zucchini and crumbled feta mixed with cooked pasta, topped with crispy garlic pangrattato for added texture. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti or penne work well)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Zucchini: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté until tender and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Prepare Pangrattato: In a separate pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and minced garlic, stirring frequently until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine Pasta and Zucchini: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the zucchini. Toss in the crumbled feta and a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates and top with the crispy garlic pangrattato. Garnish with fresh herbs and additional feta if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g