Penne With Zucchini And Basil

Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins Preparation Time: 1 hr Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients

• Servings: 4
• 3 -4 small-medium zucchini (about 14 ounces)
• salt
• 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, peeled and cut into fine half-rings
• 1/4 cup vegetable stock
• 30 fresh basil leaves, torn in pieces
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, coarsely chopped (or torn)
• 1 lb penne
• fresh ground pepper
• 4 -6 tablespoons freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese

Recipe

• 1 cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut them crosswise in 1/4 inch thick slices.
• 2 place zucchini slices in a bowl; add 1 teaspoon salt; toss and set aside for 30 minutes.
• 3 drain thoroughly and pat dry.
• 4 add oil to a large skillet over medium heat. add in the onion and stir/saute for 5 minutes (don't let onion get brown).
• 5 add in the zucchini and stir/saute for another 5 minutes or until soft.
• 6 adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
• 7 add in stock; stir once or twice, then turn off the heat.
• 8 add in basil and mint leaves; toss to combine (leave in a warm spot).
• 9 in a big pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil.
• 10 add 1 1/2 tablespoons salt.
• 11 add in the penne and stir.
• 12 boil pasta until al dente; drain in a collander.
• 13 transfer the hot pasta to a large serving bowl; add the zucchini mixture, pepper, and cheese; toss to mix and serve immediately.