Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
For the Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1/2 small onion, chopped
- 1 pound zucchini, sliced into 1/4″ rounds
- 1 (10 ounce) package little tomatoes (grape, cherry, etc.), cut into halves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 small handful fresh basil, torn or chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water if desired for the sauce.
- Sauté Onion and Zucchini: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sliced zucchini. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are browned and zucchini begins to soften. Remove from skillet and transfer to a plate.
- Cook Tomatoes and Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Add the halved tomatoes, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes, until tomatoes soften and release juices but don’t reduce all the liquid.
- Combine Cream and Vegetables: Stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil. Return the cooked zucchini and onions to the skillet. Let the mixture heat through for a couple of minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning. Season generously with salt and pepper. Serve hot topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Slice the zucchini into uniform 1/4″ rounds to ensure even cooking.
- Use grape or cherry tomatoes for sweetness and ease of preparation.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- For extra flavor, finish with fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian