Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Valcasotto pasta
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking zucchini and sauce
- Colander for draining pasta
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Valcasotto pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the Gorgonzola cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce.
6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and zucchini.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Skillet over medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Protein: 19g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Valcasotto pasta can be substituted with any other type of pasta
- Zucchini can be substituted with other vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus
- Gorgonzola cheese can be substituted with blue cheese or feta cheese
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or milk
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost
- Use different types of pasta such as penne or spaghetti
- Add chopped walnuts or pine nuts for extra crunch
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful not to overcook the zucchini as it can become mushy
- Reserve some of the pasta water to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to thin it out
- If the pasta is too dry, add more sauce or a drizzle of olive oil
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pasta and zucchini thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses
Food history:
- Valcasotto pasta is a type of pasta from the Piedmont region of Italy
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, tangy, and savory
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner
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Region: Italian