Italian Herb Zucchini Parmesan Pasta

Fresh, tender zucchini is slowly cooked down until it melts into a buttery, peppery sauce that hugs every strand of pasta—no cream needed. It’s the kind of unfussy, wholesome dish you can throw together with what’s already in your pantry, yet it tastes like something special. A sprinkle of parmesan, a crack of black pepper, and dinner is ready—rustic, cozy, and utterly delicious.

Parmesan Garlic Rosemary Olive Oil

Italian Herb Balsamic Vinegar

Italian Seasoning Blend

Ingredients

1 pound pasta, any cut works
2 tablespoons Parmesan Garlic Rosemary Olive Oil
3-4 medium zucchini/yellow summer squash, shredded or chopped
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon Italian Herb Balsamic Vinegar
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Blend
chili flakes
kosher salt and black pepper
2 tablespoons salted butter
1 cup grated parmesan
½ cup grated pecorino or manchego cheese
1 cup fresh basil, chopped

Preparation

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Just before draining, reserve 1 1/4 cups of the pasta cooking water. Drain.
   
2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini, garlic, Italian Herb Seasoning, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until the zucchini is golden, and very soft. Mix in the butter. Using the back of your spoon or a potato masher, mash down the zucchini until it becomes a chunky sauce. Add in Italian Herb Balsamic Vinegar and combine. 
   
3. Add 1 cup of reserved pasta 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. Remove from the heat, toss in the basil.
   

Serve topped with fresh basil and pepper. Enjoy!

To create a full meal, marinate some chicken breasts in 1/4 cup of Parmesan Garlic Rosemary Olive Oil, 1/4 cup Italian Herb Balsamic Vinegar, 1 tsp Italian Herb Seasoning and salt and pepper for at least 1 hour. Bake in the oven until done, and slice on top of the pasta. DELICIOUS!!