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Zucchini Cacio e Pepe: Brown Butter Dream

Zucchini Cacio e Pepe: Brown Butter Dream

Zucchini Cacio e Pepe: master this creamy, peppery pasta with a nutty brown butter finish. A simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 zucchini or yellow summer squash, sliced
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • kosher salt
  • 8 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated pecorino cheese
  • fresh basil

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Just before draining, reserve 1 1/4 cups of the pasta cooking water. Drain.
  • Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini, garlic, and season with salt. Cook until the zucchini is golden, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet to a plate.
  • Working in the same skillet, add the pepper and cook for 30 seconds, until toasted. Add 4 tablespoons butter, then the pasta, 1 cup pasta cooking water, the parmesan, and pecorino. Toss vigorously for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese. Add the remaining 1/4 cup water, the zucchini, and season with salt. Toss well.
  • Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat, cook until the butter browns, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Plate the pasta and spoon the browned butter over each serving. Top with fresh basil for garnish. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.