ONE-POT ZUCCHINI-BASIL PASTA

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One-Pot Zucchini-Basil Pasta image

This no-colander-necessary, one-pot pasta method isn't a gimmick: Cooking the noodles in just enough seasoned stock means they're done in the same amount of time it takes the liquid to reduce into a concentrated, extra flavorful sauce. Mascarpone makes it silky, though crème fraîche or even softened cream cheese would be solid substitutes. While the pasta cooks, make a quick gremolata of chopped parsley, salted almonds and basil, which adds brightness and texture to the finished dish. Though this pasta comes together quickly, it requires more attention than some: Be sure to stir frequently so the noodles cook evenly, and add a splash of water toward the end of cooking, as needed, so they stay saucy.

Provided by Alexa Weibel

Categories     dinner, easy, for two, lunch, quick, weekday, pastas, vegetables, main course

Time 20m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

2 3/4 cups vegetable stock
12 ounces medium pasta shells
2 medium zucchini (about 14 ounces total), trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
4 ounces mascarpone, crème fraîche or softened cream cheese
1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
1/3 packed cup thinly sliced basil
Kosher salt and black pepper
3 tablespoons chopped roasted salted almonds
3 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley

Steps:

  • In a large, deep 12-inch skillet, bring stock to a boil over high heat. Once stock boils, stir in pasta, zucchini, mascarpone, garlic and half the basil; season generously with salt and pepper and reduce the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring frequently, until pasta is tender and liquid is reduced until thickened and creamy, 12 to 13 minutes, adding a splash of water during the last few minutes of cooking if needed to moisten. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Meanwhile, prepare the gremolata: Chop almonds and parsley with remaining basil until finely chopped and combined; season with salt and pepper.
  • Divide pasta among shallow bowls. Sprinkle with gremolata and serve immediately.

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