Description
This Creamy Lemon Zucchini Pasta is a delightful Italian-inspired vegetarian main course featuring tender fettuccine tossed in a luscious lemon-infused creamy sauce with sautéed zucchini, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that combines fresh summer produce with rich Parmesan and a refreshing citrus zing.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated or finely shredded
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Sauté the Zucchini and Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the grated zucchini, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the zucchini softens and most of its moisture has evaporated.
- Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and become creamy.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy zucchini sauce. Toss well to combine, adding the reserved pasta water little by little as needed to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve the pasta hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or full-fat milk for heavy cream.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to increase protein content.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Use fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to enhance freshness and flavor.
- Reserve pasta water helps to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
