Easy Courgette and Crispy Pancetta Pasta

This delightful pasta dish maximises efficiency, allowing you to prepare the flavourful sauce while the pasta cooks, ensuring a complete meal in under half an hour. It’s a reliable solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting without any fuss. The harmonious combination of fresh, tender courgettes and salty, crispy pancetta creates a balanced profile of flavours that truly satisfies the palate, establishing this as a versatile and beloved classic.

Quick Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 11.3 oz (320g) short pasta (e.g., fusilli, penne)
• 7 oz (200g) diced smoked pancetta
• 2 medium courgettes
• 1/2 small white onion or 1 shallot
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Fine sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1.8 oz (50g) grated Parmigiano Reggiano
• Freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Method

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil for the pasta.
2. Meanwhile, thinly slice the courgettes into half-moons and finely chop the onion.
3. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta from the pan and set aside, leaving the rendered fat.
4. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then add the courgettes and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly firm.
5. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little of the pasta cooking water.
6. Transfer the drained pasta directly to the frying pan with the courgettes. Add the crispy pancetta, a ladleful of the reserved pasta cooking water, the Parmigiano Reggiano, salt, and pepper.
7. Stir well to combine all ingredients, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated. Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving & Leftovers

Serve this pasta hot, with an extra sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano and black pepper. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. We recommend gently reheating them in a frying pan with a dash of water or stock to maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portions.

One Last Thing

Having quick, reliable methods like this simplifies daily kitchen routines. This approach values simplicity and consistency, transforming cooking into an opportunity to nourish yourself and family without stress. Integrate dishes like this for a repertoire of quick, flavourful recipes, perfect for any occasion.