Zucchini and Garlic Pasta

Ingredients

Pasta

8 ounces (spaghetti or linguine recommended)

Zucchini

2 medium, sliced into half-moons

Garlic

4 cloves, minced

Olive oil

3 tablespoons

Salt

to taste

Black pepper

to taste

Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup, grated

Fresh basil

1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Season the zucchini and garlic mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water (to help the sauce adhere). Toss everything together to combine well.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss again until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped basil before serving.