Zucchini Cream Cheese Pasta: A Creamy Delight
This recipe offers a delightful creamy pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, a rich cream cheese sauce, and penne pasta, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Equipment
- medium to large pan
- pot
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 small to medium sized zucchini, diced
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup cream cheese light or regular, room temperature
- 1 ¾ – 2 cups dried penne pasta approximately 200-275 grams
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan and add diced zucchini, oregano, salt, parsley, and water. Cook until the water evaporates and the zucchini is tender and lightly browned.
- Boil salted water and cook penne pasta al dente while the zucchini cooks.
- Add cream cheese and a ladle of reserved pasta water to the zucchini. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan and gently combine with the sauce.
- Serve immediately, optionally topped with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before adding for a smoother sauce. For larger zucchini, remove excess pulp by quartering and slicing before chopping. This dish is also suitable for adding protein like Italian sausage, shrimp, or scallops.