Pasta & Simple Creamy Zucchini Sauce

Step 1: Pasta ... This sauce is so quick to prepare, you might want to start the pasta first. Cook the pasta according to package directions in plenty of salted water. Drain and set to the side; cover and keep warm until the sauce is finished. Make sure to reserve some of the pasta water to add to the sauce.

Step 2: Sauce ... Add the butter and oil to a large saute pan on medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes; cook 2-3 minutes stirring often until slightly tender. Bring to medium high heat and, add the zucchini, a pinch of both salt and pepper, and cook about 5 minutes until lightly golden brown and tender - but NOT falling apart.

Step 3: Finish ... Add the ricotta, parmesan, and half and half to the warm drained pasta and mix well. I add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce slightly, but that is up to you - just a little will go a long way; but add as much as you like. Then add in the sauteed zucchini mix and the basil; and again, mix well to combine - make sure to season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Serve ... Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves, if you want - and ENJOY! As I said, I love to serve this as a side to grilled salmon or chicken; but this could easily be served as a great vegetarian main dish.