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Baked Zucchini Pasta

A creamy and cheesy baked zucchini pasta that combines fresh vegetables and comforting noodles for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Aromatics
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
  • 1 medium onion or shallot Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
Main Ingredients
  • 3 medium zucchini Adds freshness and a slight crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano Imparts an earthy, herbaceous note.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper flakes Offers a hint of spice for added warmth.
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves Brightens the dish with a refreshing flavor.
  • 1/2 cup parmigiano Adds a nutty, rich cheese flavor.
  • 1/2 cup cream Contributes to the dish's luxurious creaminess.
  • 12 ounces cooked pasta The hearty foundation of the dish, providing texture.
  • 1 cup mozzarella Creates a gooey, melty topping for a delightful finish.
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmigiano For an extra cheesy touch on top.
  • 2 tablespoons parsley Adds a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
  2. In a large frying pan, heat olive oil and add garlic and chopped onion or shallot. Cook over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Incorporate chopped zucchini, oregano, salt, hot pepper flakes, and mint leaves, cooking for an additional 5 to 8 minutes while stirring frequently.
  4. After cooking, take out the whole garlic clove for a milder taste in the sauce.
  5. In a blender, combine 2/3 of the zucchini mixture with olive oil and blend until smooth. Add parmigiano and cream, then blend again until creamy.
Combine and Bake
  1. Mix the creamy sauce with the cooked al dente pasta and the remaining zucchini mixture until well combined.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a medium-sized baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and additional parmigiano cheese.
  3. Place in the oven and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  4. Sprinkle with finely chopped parsley before serving for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious dish!

Notes

Use seasonal zucchini for the freshest flavor. Make sure your pasta is cooked until al dente to avoid mushiness. You can also experiment with herbs like basil or thyme. For a healthier version, consider using light cream or a cauliflower blend instead of heavy cream.