PASTA WITH ZUCCHINI AND HAM

Pasta With Zucchini and Ham image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 45m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

Kosher salt
10 ounces gemelli or cavatelli pasta
1 medium zucchini
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Pinch of red pepper flakes
2 medium tomatoes, cut into chunks
1/4 pound thinly sliced Black Forest ham, cut into strips
Freshly ground pepper
1/3 cup crumbled goat or feta cheese
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
6 fresh mint leaves, torn

Steps:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook as the label directs. Drain, reserving 1 cup cooking water.
Trim the zucchini, then coarsely grate into a colander set in the sink. Toss the zucchini with 1/4 teaspoon salt and let sit 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes and 1/4 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, until the garlic is golden, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook until slightly softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Squeeze any excess moisture from the zucchini, then add to the skillet. Add the pasta, ham and the reserved cooking water and toss until warmed through, 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the heat and fold in the cheese, parsley and mint.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 447, Fat 16 grams, SaturatedFat 4 grams, Cholesterol 22 milligrams, Sodium 578 milligrams, Carbohydrate 60 grams, Fiber 3 grams, Protein 17 grams