Description
This Pasta with Grated Zucchini and Crispy Prosciutto recipe takes the earthy goodness of zucchini and transforms it into a comforting pasta dish. This simple and delightful zucchini recipe can be on your dinner table in under 20 minutes. Additionally, it’s a clever way to sneak in an extra serving of vegetables, making it a fantastic choice for both adults, and picky eaters.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12-ounces pasta
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup pasta water, plus
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2-ounces prosciutto
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper, for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon olive oil, for garnish
Instructions
- Start boiling a pot of water for the pasta.
- If making crispy prosciutto, lay the prosciutto on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake at 400° for 3 to 4 minutes, or until almost crispy. (Note: the prosciutto will continue to crisp up as it cools)
- Remove from oven and place on paper towels. Reserve.
- Grate the zucchini on a box grater (using a small grate)
- Once boiling, salt the water. Add the pasta.
- In a saucepan, heat up the olive oil, garlic and crushed red pepper.
- Allow to infuse for just a minute or two.
- Add the grated zucchini and salt.
- Sauté the zucchini for just about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the pasta water. Cook for another minute.
- Transfer the pasta directly from the pot to the saucepan using a slotted spoon.
- Mix to coat the pasta.
- Turn down the heat. Working quickly, add the Parmesan cheese and stir vigorously to form a creamy sauce.
- Plate. Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper and a drizzle of a good quality olive oil.
- Break up the prosciutto and sprinkle on the pasta.
- ENJOY!
Notes
- start cooking the pasta before creating the sauce
- infuse the olive oil with the garlic and crushed red pepper (do not brown the garlic)
- the grated zucchini only needs about two minutes to sauté
- cook the pasta to al dente (the pasta will continue cooking in the sauce)
- transfer the pasta directly from the pot using a slotted spoon
- reserve a little extra pasta water to thin out the sauce, if needed
- instead of baking, air fry the prosciutto at 360° for 4 to 6 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Easy
- Cuisine: American, Italian