Carbonara Pasta with Zucchini

 Ingredients: Penne pasta, Zucchini, Cheese, Ham, Sour cream, Salt and pepper, Oil

To prepare a delicious and comforting meal, we start by cooking the pasta. Choose your preferred type of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, and boil it in a large pot of salted water. It is important to add salt to the water as it will enhance the flavor of the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Once ready, drain it and keep a cup of the water in which it boiled, as you can use it later to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Meanwhile, prepare the zucchini. Wash it well, then slice it thinly or cut it into small cubes, depending on your preference. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the zucchini and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes slightly golden and soft. It is essential not to overcook it, as we want to keep the zucchini's crunchy texture and fresh flavor.

Once the zucchini is nearly done, cut the kaiser sausage into small pieces and add it to the skillet. Continue cooking the mixture for another 3-4 minutes until the kaiser becomes crispy and releases its aroma. This combination of zucchini and kaiser will create a wonderful base for our sauce.

Now it’s time to add a creamy ingredient. Pour the sour cream into the skillet, mix well, and let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste, but be careful not to overdo it, as the kaiser is already salty. Finally, add the grated cheese, which will melt quickly and thicken the sauce, giving it a creamy texture.

Once the sauce is smooth and delicious, add the cooked pasta, gently mixing to coat it completely with the sauce. If you prefer a softer consistency, add a little of the reserved pasta water. Let everything cook for about 30 seconds to combine the flavors.

Serve the pasta warm, optionally topped with a little freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or to impress guests. Enjoy your meal!

 Tags:  zucchini