Fusilli Pasta with Zucchini
Ingredients: -500g fusilli pasta -5 tablespoons olive oil -1 zucchini -1 onion -1 stalk of celery -1 carrot -250g smoked pancetta/bacon -cheese -salt -pepper -2 bay leaves
In a deep skillet, start by heating olive oil over medium heat. When the oil becomes slightly shiny, add finely chopped onion, which will release delicious aromas throughout the kitchen. Let the onion sauté for about a minute, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Once the onion becomes translucent, it's time to add pancetta, which will provide a rich and hearty flavor to the dish. Allow the pancetta to brown for 2-3 minutes until it becomes crispy and releases its aromatic oils.
After the pancetta is ready, add diced zucchini, which will add a pleasant texture and a note of freshness. Stir well and let it sauté for a minute to allow the zucchini to reveal its flavor. The next ingredient, finely chopped carrot, is now added to the skillet. This will bring a natural sweetness to the dish. Stir again and let it cook for a few minutes so that the carrot becomes slightly soft.
Finally, add finely chopped celery stalk, which will give a distinctive taste and a note of crunch. Add enough water to cover all the vegetables, season with salt and pepper to taste, and introduce the bay leaves. Let the dish simmer on low heat until the water reduces and the vegetables become tender and delicious.
Meanwhile, cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions. When al dente, drain and add to the vegetables in the skillet. It is essential that when combining the pasta with the vegetables, the latter are soft and there is a bit of sauce left in the skillet, which will coat the pasta in a savory way.
For a touch of elegance and unmistakable flavor, when serving, generously sprinkle grated cheese, which will melt slightly due to the heat of the pasta. This dish not only combines delicious flavors but also vibrant colors, transforming the meal into a pleasant culinary experience. Enjoy your meal!
