Mediterranean Zucchini and Mushroom Pasta Delight
Savor the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable Zucchini, Mushroom, and Fresh Tomato Sauce served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish combines the earthiness of sautéed mushrooms, the tender crunch of zucchini, and the freshness of sun-ripened tomatoes, all brought together with aromatic garlic and herbs. A drizzling of olive oil enhances the taste, making it a heart-healthy option that’s rich in flavor yet low in cholesterol. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this pasta dish will surely impress your family and friends while being easy to whip up in under thirty minutes.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
chopped onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
diced trimmed zucchini
1 cup (1 1/2 inch dice)
diced mushrooms
1 cup (none)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
chopped fresh tomato
1 cup (chopped)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
chopped fresh Italian parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons (chopped)
penne pasta
1 lb (cooked al dente and drained)
grated parmesan cheese
to taste (for serving)
Instructions
1
In a large wide saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent and fragrant.
2
Add in the diced zucchini and mushrooms to the pan. Increase the heat to high and stir constantly for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
3
Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
4
Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the saucepan. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are softened and juicy.
5
Season the mixture with salt, then add the freshly chopped parsley and basil. Mix well to combine all flavors.
6
In a large pot, combine the cooked penne pasta with the sauce, tossing well to ensure all the pasta is coated. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Zucchini and Mushroom Pasta Delight?
It is a vibrant pasta dish featuring sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and a fresh tomato sauce served over penne pasta.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is categorized as vegetarian.
Is this pasta dish heart-healthy?
Yes, it is a heart-healthy option that is rich in flavor yet low in cholesterol.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
This recipe is designed to be easy to whip up in under thirty minutes.
What type of pasta should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of penne pasta, cooked al dente and drained.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
How should the zucchini be prepared?
The zucchini should be trimmed and cut into 1 1/2 inch dice.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
In a large wide saucepan, heat the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until translucent.
At what heat should the zucchini and mushrooms be cooked?
They should be cooked on high heat, stirring constantly for about 10 minutes.
When do I add the garlic?
Stir in the minced garlic after the zucchini and mushrooms are tender and slightly caramelized, sautéing for another minute.
Can I use canned tomatoes for the sauce?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 cup of chopped fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
How long do the fresh tomatoes need to cook?
Cook the tomatoes for another 5 minutes until they are softened and juicy.
What fresh herbs are included in this dish?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of chopped fresh Italian parsley and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil.
How much salt is added to the sauce?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
How is the dish finished before serving?
Toss the cooked penne with the sauce and serve with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
Is the parmesan cheese quantity specific?
No, the parmesan cheese is added to taste for serving.
What size should the onion pieces be?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of chopped onion.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
Two minced garlic cloves are required for this recipe.
What is the goal of sautéing the zucchini and mushrooms on high heat?
The goal is to make the vegetables tender and allow them to become slightly caramelized.
Is this recipe good for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal ideal for weeknight dinners.
What is the ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total.
Does this recipe contain fiber information?
The provided data does not specify the exact fiber count.
Can this dish be served at special gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a dish that will surely impress family and friends.
What makes this sauce aromatic?
The combination of fresh garlic, parsley, and basil makes the sauce highly aromatic.
What type of parsley should I use?
Fresh Italian parsley is recommended for this recipe.
Is there any preparation needed for the mushrooms?
The mushrooms should be diced before being added to the pan.
How do I ensure the pasta is well-coated?
In a large pot, combine the pasta with the sauce and toss them well together.
Should the garlic be sautéed for a long time?
No, only sauté the garlic for about 1 minute to prevent it from burning while becoming fragrant.
What is the texture of the cooked tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be cooked until they are softened and juicy.
Is the zucchini peeled?
The recipe specifies trimmed and diced zucchini, implying the peel can remain on.