Simplest Zucchini Parmesan Pasta submitted by Mom Johnson
Description
Simple, easy and delicious! Another way to use up that abundance of zucchini from the garden!

Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Just before draining, reserve 1 1/4 cups pasta cooking water. Drain.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini, garlic, thyme, chili flakes (optional), salt and pepper. Cook until the zucchini is golden, about 5 minutes. Using the back of your spoon or a potato masher, mash down the zucchini until it becomes a chunky sauce.

Add 1 cup of the reserved cooking water and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the pasta, parmesan and pecorino and toss until melted. Add more pasta water if needed to thin the sauce. (If a smoother sauce is desired, use an immersion blender.) Remove from heat and stir in the basil.

Top with more fresh basil and enjoy!




Ingredients
v 1 pound pasta, any cut works
v 2 T. olive oil
v 3-4 medium zucchini, yellow or green, shredded
v 3 cloves garlic
v 1 T. chopped fresh thyme
v Chili flakes, to taste
v Salt and pepper
v 2 T. salted butter
v 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
v 1/2 cup Pecorino or Manchego cheese
v 1 cup fresh basil, more for topping