Ingredients

1 can plum tomatoes , diced and undrained
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons parsley
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon salt
1 garlic clove , minced
450 g penne pasta
8 ounces mozzarella cheese , shredded
2 small zucchini , unpeeled and shredded
salt and pepper
1/2 cup pitted black olives ( optional )
1/2 cup feta cheese , diced ( optional )
Italian Flag Zucchini Pasta Salad is a colorful and flavorful recipe that is perfect for a summer BBQ or picnic. With the green zucchini, white mozzarella cheese, and red plum tomatoes, the dish resembles the Italian flag and is sure to impress guests. This recipe can be easily scaled up or down to accommodate any group size. The use of fresh ingredients, such as the herbs and garlic, enhances the flavor of the dish and gives it a homemade taste. Serve this pasta salad as a side dish or as a light entree for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Instructions

1.In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced plum tomatoes, olive oil, parsley, basil, salt, and minced garlic. Mix well.
2.Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the mixing bowl with the tomato mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
3.Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and shredded zucchini to the mixing bowl. Toss until evenly distributed.
4.Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the pitted black olives and diced feta cheese, if using.
5.Serve chilled or at room temperature.

PROS

This pasta salad is easy to make and is a colorful addition to any meal.
The zucchini adds a healthy vegetable component to the dish, while the mozzarella cheese and black olives provide a satisfying flavor and texture.
This recipe can be easily adjusted to personal preferences by adding or omitting ingredients.

CONS

The use of olive oil and cheese in this recipe can make it high in calories and fat.
Additionally, some may find the zucchini to be too soft or overpowering in flavor.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This pasta salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber. The use of olive oil in the recipe provides healthy unsaturated fats, which have been linked to reduced risk of heart disease. The zucchini in the recipe is also a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and maintain heart health.

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