Shrimp and Courgette Pasta with Cold Meats

This delightful dish brings together succulent shrimp, fresh courgette, and pasta, all enhanced by the addition of flavorful cold meats. The combination offers a beautiful balance of textures and tastes, making it a perfect light yet satisfying meal. It's a creative twist on traditional pasta recipes, providing a unique and appealing flavor profile while respecting culinary principles.

Ingredients:

• 200g pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
• 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 medium courgette, thinly sliced
• 100g cold cuts (e.g., prosciutto or salami), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Add the sliced courgette to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in the cooked pasta, cold cuts, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together to combine well.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.