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1
Put a pot of water on to boil.
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2
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the onions in 3 tablespoons olive oil until softened, 5 to 8 minutes.
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3
Reduce heat as necessary to keep onions from browning.
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4
Add zucchini, season generously with salt and pepper, and continue cooking, stirring occasionally until rather soft, about 10 minutes.
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5
Turn off heat.
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6
Meanwhile, use a mortar and pestle to pound garlic, basil and a little salt into a rough paste (or use a mini food processor).
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7
Stir in 3 tablespoons olive oil.
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8
Salt the pasta water well and put in the pasta, stirring.
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9
Boil per package instructions but make sure to keep pasta quite al dente.
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10
Drain pasta, reserving 1 cup of cooking water.
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11
Add cooked pasta to zucchini in skillet and turn heat to medium-high.
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12
Add 1/2 cup cooking water, then the ricotta, crushed red pepper and lemon zest, stirring to distribute.
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13
Check seasoning and adjust.
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14
Cook for 1 minute more.
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15
Mixture should look creamy.
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16
Add a little more pasta water if necessary.
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17
Add the basil paste and half the grated cheese and quickly stir to incorporate.
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18
Spoon pasta into warm soup plates and sprinkle with additional cheese.
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19
Serve immediately.