Squash and Feta Penne Pasta: A Delightful Culinary Experience
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with our delightful Squash and Feta Penne Pasta, a perfect dish that combines the sweetness of zucchini with the tangy richness of feta cheese, creating a delightful symphony of taste that is not only satisfying but also healthy. This recipe from lovewithrecipes.com is an ideal option for a quick weekday meal, taking less than thirty minutes from start to finish, making it a wonderful choice for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a nourishing dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 8 ounces |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried oregano | ½ teaspoon |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Zucchini | 2 medium, sliced |
| Fat-free chicken broth | ¾ cup |
| Lemon, zest of | 1½ teaspoons |
| Lemon juice | ¼ cup |
| Black pepper | 2/3 teaspoon |
| Feta cheese | ½ cup, crumbled |
| Salt | to taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320.4 |
| Total Fat | 10.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 22.3 mg |
| Sodium | 383.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.5 g |
| Sugars | 2.9 g |
| Protein | 9.3 g |
Preparation Instructions
To create this delicious Squash and Feta Penne Pasta, follow these detailed steps, ensuring a seamless cooking experience that yields a beautiful dish perfect for any occasion.
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about half a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
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Prepare the Skillet: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to warm until it shimmers slightly, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
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Slice the Squash: Take the zucchini and slice it in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into thin slices to maximize their surface area for cooking. This will help achieve a tender texture while sautéing.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the sliced zucchini, dried oregano, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté these ingredients for about three minutes, stirring frequently, until the zucchini is tender and fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Incorporate the Broth and Citrus: Pour in the fat-free chicken broth, then add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Sprinkle in the black pepper and stir everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes, letting the broth reduce slightly and intensifying the flavors.
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Combine Pasta and Feta: Gently add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, followed by the crumbled feta cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and the feta is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
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Adjust Consistency: If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
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Season to Taste: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
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Serve Warm: Transfer the Squash and Feta Penne Pasta to serving plates or a large bowl, and enjoy warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Squash and Feta Penne Pasta is a perfect representation of wholesome cooking that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a great choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. With its delightful combination of fresh vegetables and creamy feta, this dish is bound to impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy your culinary creation and share this recipe with others on lovewithrecipes.com for everyone to relish the delightful taste of squash and feta!
