Delight in this simple yet flavorful spaghetti dish that combines tender pasta with crispy pan-fried zucchini, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you’re craving something deliciously satisfying yet effortless to prepare. The crispy zucchini adds a delightful crunch and complements the pasta beautifully, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into rounds
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
- While the spaghetti is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced zucchini in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the zucchini is golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook the zucchini in batches depending on the size of your skillet. Transfer the cooked zucchini to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Combine Spaghetti and Zucchini:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the oil. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Add Parmesan Cheese and Seasoning:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the spaghetti and toss again to combine. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
- Divide the spaghetti among serving plates. Top each serving with the crispy zucchini slices. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
7. Enjoy:
- Serve the spaghetti with crispy zucchini immediately while it’s still warm. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish as a main course for lunch or dinner.
Tips for Perfect Spaghetti with Crispy Zucchini:
- Zucchini Slicing: Ensure the zucchini slices are thinly sliced for even cooking and crispy texture.
- Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. For a milder flavor, use less garlic.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, or omit them if you prefer a milder dish.
- Pasta Water: The reserved pasta cooking water helps create a silky sauce that coats the spaghetti. Adjust the amount based on how saucy you want the dish to be.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbal note to the dish. Substitute with parsley if preferred.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this spaghetti dish with a fresh green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for mopping up the delicious garlic-infused olive oil.
- Enjoy leftovers the next day; the flavors often meld together beautifully overnight.
This spaghetti with crispy zucchini is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting pasta meal with a twist. It’s quick to make, bursting with flavors, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.