Description
A delicious and simple Pasta with Caramelized Zucchini recipe featuring tender, golden zucchini cooked slowly to develop sweet, rich flavors. Combined with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon zest, this comforting pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light dinner for four.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or short pasta like rigatoni)
Vegetables & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- Fresh basil or mint, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Heat Fat and Start Zucchini: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and hot.
- Caramelize Zucchini: Add the thinly sliced zucchini along with a pinch of salt to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20–25 minutes until the zucchini is deeply golden and caramelized. Take your time to allow the zucchini to develop a rich flavor and color.
- Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking the zucchini to soften the garlic without burning it and infuse the dish with mild heat.
- Combine Pasta and Zucchini: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the caramelized zucchini, tossing to combine evenly.
- Create Sauce: Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing the pasta and zucchini together to form a light sauce that coats the noodles perfectly.
- Finish with Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest if using, and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped basil or mint for a fragrant finishing touch. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Caramelizing the zucchini slowly is key to developing the dish’s signature flavor; do not rush this step by turning the heat too high.
- Reserved pasta water is essential to create a silky sauce that binds the pasta and vegetables.
- Lemon zest adds brightness but is optional.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or mint for garnish to add freshness and color.
- This dish pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread on the side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
