Grilled Summer Squash and Tomatoes with Angel Hair Pasta
This delightful dish of Grilled Summer Squash and Tomatoes with Angel Hair Pasta presents a perfect harmony of flavors, capturing the essence of summer produce in a simple yet satisfying recipe that can be prepared in just about half an hour. While originally adapted from a pasta recipe featured in Everyday Food Magazine, this version is a wonderfully light take that can easily stand on its own or be complemented with grilled chicken for a heartier meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and a drizzle of olive oil creates a dish that is not only visually appealing but also rich in nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy, one-dish meal that is low in cholesterol and perfect for those warm summer nights.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Angel hair pasta | 4 ounces |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 ½ tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Zucchini | 2 small |
| Tomatoes | 3 medium |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh ground black pepper | To taste |
| Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup, grated |
Nutritional Information Table
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving (2 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 356 |
| Total Fat | 9.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 4.4 mg |
| Sodium | 100.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 56 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.8 g |
| Sugars | 9.7 g |
| Protein | 12.9 g |
Preparation Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the grilled vegetables.
-
-
Prepare the Vegetables: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sliced zucchini and chopped tomatoes with the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, dried basil, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently to ensure that all the vegetables are well-coated in the oil and seasonings, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using an indoor grill, make sure it’s ready for cooking. If you’re using an outdoor grill or a stovetop grill pan, make sure it’s well-heated to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
-
Grill the Vegetables: Place the seasoned zucchini and tomato mixture on the grill. Grill the vegetables for approximately 3-5 minutes per side until they are slightly softened and have developed a lovely char. Depending on your grill, this process may take about 20 minutes in total, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
-
Cool and Cut the Vegetables: Once the vegetables are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes until they are easy to handle. Cut the grilled zucchini and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
-
Combine Pasta and Vegetables: In a large serving bowl, toss together the cooked angel hair pasta and the grilled vegetable medley. Ensure that the pasta is well combined with the vegetables for even distribution of flavors.
-
Finish with Cheese: Before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and vegetable mixture. This adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the overall dish.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve this delightful Grilled Summer Squash and Tomatoes with Angel Hair Pasta warm, garnished with a sprig of fresh basil or a sprinkle of additional cheese if desired. This dish is perfect for a light summer dinner or as a side dish for grilled meats or fish.
In conclusion, this Grilled Summer Squash and Tomatoes with Angel Hair Pasta is not only a visually stunning dish but also a nourishing option that celebrates the freshness of summer produce. With its delightful mix of flavors and easy preparation, it stands as a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a memorable meal that can be enjoyed by all, making it a fantastic choice for both family dinners and entertaining guests. Whether you choose to serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with grilled chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the vibrant colors of summer with every delightful bite!
