Penne with Grilled Zucchini, Ricotta Salata, and Mint

A fresh and flavorful pasta dish combining grilled zucchini, salty ricotta salata cheese, and bright mint leaves, all tossed with penne in a light olive oil and balsamic dressing. Perfect for summer dining.

6 servings
27 min

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds small zucchini, trimmed, halved lengthwise
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Coarse kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
  • 2 pinches dried crushed red pepper
  • 1 pound penne or ziti pasta
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • ¾ cup crumbled ricotta salata

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Arrange zucchini on rimmed baking sheet; brush all over with oil. Sprinkle with coarse salt and black pepper. Grill zucchini until tender, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to work surface; cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces. Place in large serving bowl. Add vinegar, mint, and crushed red pepper; set aside.

    15 min

  2. 2.

    Cook pasta in boiling salted water until just tender but still firm to bite. Drain. Add pasta to zucchini mixture, then add 3 tablespoons olive oil and ricotta salata and toss. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

    12 min

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