Celebration Pasta: A nostalgic recipe for gatherings!
This delightful “Celebration Pasta” recipe brings back the joy of youthful gatherings with friends. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of friendship and fun, perfect for any occasion. Are you ready to relive those wonderful moments in the kitchen? Let’s cook and enjoy this fantastic pasta that every friend will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you searching for a quick, flavorful dish to impress your friends at your next get-together? This recipe is both easy to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients. Imagine dining with your friends, sharing laughter and stories, while savoring this hearty, delicious pasta. Don’t you want to recreate some of those cherished moments?
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 250 grams bacon bits
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 small organic zucchini, diced
- 20 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 10 green olives, sliced
- Grated parmesan cheese, to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato tapenade
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 2 ladles of pasta cooking water
- 500 grams Casarecce pasta
Instructions
- Finely chop the shallots.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Slice the green olives.
- Dice the zucchini into small cubes.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the shallots until translucent.
- Add the bacon bits and let them cook until crispy and golden.
- Introduce the zucchini to the skillet and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and continue to sauté for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato tapenade, olives, and the reserved pasta cooking water.
- Let it simmer for a few minutes on low heat, then add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together.
- Finish with fresh basil leaves and shaved parmesan, and if you like a little heat, add some Espelette pepper flakes.
Notes
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread.
Recipe Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider using a mix of different olives or adding a splash of white wine to the vegetables while they cook. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed!
Nutritional Information
This recipe provides a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Enjoy this well-rounded dish as part of a varied diet!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different pasta shapes?
- Absolutely! While Casarecce works great, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape like penne or fusilli.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
- Yes! Substitute bacon with smoked tofu or skip it completely for a delicious vegetarian option.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Can I freeze this pasta?
- Yes, you can freeze the pasta, but it’s best to do so without the toppings. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
- This pasta pairs well with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or grilled vegetables!