Pasta with Zucchini Flowers
In the summer, when zucchini flowers appear, these delights become a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes from my area, located just 45 minutes from Naples. Today, I will present you with an authentic Neapolitan recipe that will bring the flavors and tastes of this region to your table. The ingredients used are simple but exceptionally tasty, and each step of the recipe is a joy.
The first step is to take care of the zucchini flowers. It is essential to wash them very carefully to remove any impurities. After cleaning them, we carefully cut off the green part and the pistil, allowing the flowers to drain well on a clean towel. This step is important because it ensures that the flowers will be easy to incorporate into the dish without adding excess water.
The next step involves the ham, which should be cut into thin strips. This will add a rich flavor to our dish. In a deep skillet, we heat a splash of olive oil and add the finely chopped onion. We let it sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent and releases its aroma. Then, we add the strips of ham, mixing everything to allow the ingredients to combine harmoniously. After a few minutes, we pour in a glass of white wine, and when it has evaporated, we add the zucchini flowers torn into quarters. This is the moment when the flavors unite, and the dish takes on a remarkable taste.
While we stir everything in the skillet, we cook the pasta according to the package instructions. In a separate bowl, we mix the ricotta with a splash of milk and grated parmesan, to taste. When the pasta is al dente, we drain it and add it to the mixture in the skillet, along with the creamy ricotta. Everything is mixed carefully so that the pasta absorbs the delicious flavors.
Finally, we serve the dish hot, sprinkled with a little freshly ground pepper and more grated parmesan, to taste. This dish is an explosion of flavors and aromas, and the fresh zucchini flowers from our garden add a special charm. It is a recipe that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of joy and authenticity to every family’s table. Enjoy it with your loved ones!
Ingredients: 360 g pasta, 10 zucchini flowers, 120 g ham (cooked prosciutto), 50 ml white wine, 250 g ricotta, 1 onion, olive oil, salt, pepper, grated parmesan.
