Tomato Zucchini Pesto Pasta

Tomato Zucchini Penne with Pesto

Adding a little bit of sugar complements the fresh and earthy flavours of the pesto. For a balanced meal, add a protein source, such as grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. Makes 6 servings.

Ingredients

Whole wheat penne pasta 2 cups (500 mL) dry pasta
Fresh basil 1 cup (250 mL)
Olive oil 1 tsp (15 mL)
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Sugar 1 tsp (5 mL)
Parmesan cheese, grated 1 tbsp (15 mL)
Ricotta cheese 1/4 cup (50 mL)
Zucchini, sliced 1 medium zucchini
Water 1 tbsp (15 mL)
Salt 1/2 tsp (2 mL)
Cherry tomatoes, quartered 1 cup (250 mL)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to the package directions until "al dente" (tender but firm). Drain well; transfer to larger serving dish. 
  2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil, oil, garlic, and sugar. Blend in Parmesan and ricotta. Set aside. 
  3. Place zucchini in large casserole dish with 1 tbsp of water and microwave for 3 minutes on high, drain. 
  4. Add zucchini, pesto and salt to pasta, toss well. Garnish with cherry tomatoes.