Penne with Zucchini and Basil

1. 1

   Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente.

2. 2

   Drain, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, heat 1/4 cup of the olive oil in each of 2 large skillets.

4. 4

   Add half of the zucchini to each skillet, season with salt and pepper and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Return the pasta to the pot and add the butter and zucchini along with any olive oil in the skillets.

6. 6

   Add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water and half of the Parmesan and season with salt and pepper.

7. 7

   Cook over moderate heat, stirring, until the liquid is creamy and slightly absorbed, 1 to 2 minutes.

8. 8

   Add more of the pasta cooking water if the pasta is dry.

9. 9

   Stir in half of the basil and transfer the pasta to a large platter.

10. 10

    Sprinkle with the remaining basil and Parmesan and serve immediately.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.