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One of the essential techniques in making creamy pasta is understanding how to properly combine broth and cream. Start by using a flavorful broth—chicken or vegetable broth works best—as it serves as the foundation of your sauce. The key to a rich, creamy texture lies in the balance between the broth and cream.

Creamy Zucchini & Tomato Pasta

Discover the delightful simplicity of Creamy Zucchini & Tomato Pasta, a dish that brings together fresh ingredients and a velvety sauce for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Packed with healthy zucchini and bursting cherry tomatoes, this pasta recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for busy nights or leisurely weekends, you can easily customize it with your favorite pasta and proteins. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful, comforting dish!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fusilli works well)

2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup vegetable broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.

    Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

      Add Zucchini and Tomatoes: Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and sauté for another 5 minutes, until they start to soften. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they begin to blister and break down.

        Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta cooking water until desired consistency is reached. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

            Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings