Are you ready to indulge in a delightful culinary experience that perfectly captures the essence of summer? Our Creamy Summer Squash Pasta is not just a dish; it's a celebration of fresh flavors and creamy goodness that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy! With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is the ideal solution for busy weeknights or a quick weekend treat. Imagine al dente pasta enveloped in a luscious cream sauce, complemented by tender summer squash and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on this vibrant dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Dive in to discover how to whip up this irresistible meal!
Ingredients
- 300g pasta of choice
- 2 medium summer squash, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30-45 seconds.
- Add diced summer squash to the skillet, stirring frequently. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the squash becomes tender but still retains a slight crunch.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet with the squash, reducing heat to low. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to slightly thicken.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the squash and cream.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly to ensure even coating of the pasta.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to further thicken. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, consider using shapes like fettuccine or penne that hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Don't Overcook the Squash: The key to a perfect texture is cooking the summer squash just until tender. You want it to retain a slight crunch for added freshness.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water. It’s a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and adding flavor.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish visually and add a burst of flavor.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, or toss in other veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
