This Spaghetti Pasta Recipe is a variation of the iconic Italian dish pasta Aglio e Olio. Sauteed vegetables add a special touch of color and sweetness!
⅛teaspooncrushed red pepper flakes or more, optional
2mediumzucchinidiced
salt and pepper to taste
1red pepperdiced
1poundspaghetti1 package (454 grams)
reserved pasta waterseparated
¼cupItalian flat-leaf parsleychopped fresh
4-5basil leavesfresh, hand-torn
⅓cupParmigiano-Reggiano Cheese or Pecorino Romano Cheeseoptional, to garnish
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
In a large skillet, over medium-low heat, add the olive oil.
If using, add the pancetta and saute until most of the fat has rendered and begins to turn golden. The total time will vary based on the size of the diced pancetta.
Add the chopped garlic, french shallots and a few pinches of red pepper flakes, if using.
Saute, occasionally stirring, for approximately 3-4 minutes or until the onions have softened. Do not let the garlic brown.
Add the spaghetti to the pot of boiling water, stir, and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Increase the heat of the pan to medium-high, add the diced zucchini and saute for a couple of minutes until beginning to soften.
Add about ½ cup of pasta water and continue to cook for a couple more minutes. Add more pasta water if the mixture appears dry.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the diced red pepper and saute for a few minutes.
Drain the pasta and reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water.
Combine the pasta with the sauteed vegetables in the pan. If the dish appears dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
Add the chopped green onions, parsley and a few hand-torn basil leaves.
Toss together and serve. If desired, garnish with grated cheese.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the total amount of garlic.
Any long pasta shape works well.
Replace the zucchini and red pepper with any veggies you have in your fridge that need to be consumed.
Cook the pasta at the same time the veggies are being sauteed so that both are ready at the same time.
Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used.