Lemony Fusilli with Chicken, Zucchini, and Pine Nuts

By devogirl

Nutrition facts per serving:
426 calories,
32g protein,
49g carbohydrate,
14g fat,
6g fiber

Ingredients

• 3 teaspoons salt
• 8 ounces whole wheat fusilli
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 slender zucchini, halved lengthwise, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
• 5 scallions, chopped
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1 lemon, rind peeled in strips
• Small pinch red pepper flakes
• 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 5 large basil leaves, sliced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

Preparation

Step 1

1. Bring a large pot of water with 2 teaspoons of the salt to a boil; add the fusilli. Cook until al dente.

2. Warm 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the zucchini, scallions, pine nuts, lemon peel, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt; cook, tossing frequently, until zucchini is well browned and tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer zucchini to a serving bowl. Remove lemon peel from pan. Mince 1/2 teaspoon of the peel and discard the rest. Squeeze half the lemon over the zucchini.

4. Turn heat to medium-high and swirl in remaining olive oil. Add the chicken, minced lemon peel, and remaining salt; cook, stirring, until golden, about 7 minutes.

5. Drain fusilli, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water. Add fusilli, zucchini, and reserved cooking water to skillet. Cook 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and top with the basil and, if using, Parmesan.