This Lemon Zucchini Pasta is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer! It’s made with spiralized zucchini, zesty lemon, and a sprinkle of cheese for flavor.
The best part? You don’t need a lot of ingredients, and it feels fancy without the fuss! I love serving it with a side salad for a bright meal that won’t weigh you down.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually go for spaghetti or linguine, but you can try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Zucchini noodles could work too for a low-carb option!
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are fantastic here. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash instead. Both will give your dish a nice texture!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice kick! If you’re sensitive to spice, you can skip them or substitute with black pepper for a milder flavor.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right?
Cooking zucchini is all about timing. You want it to be tender but not mushy. Here’s how:
- Start with medium-high heat when sautéing. This helps to evaporate excess moisture.
- Don’t cook longer than 3 minutes; you want zucchini to maintain a bit of crunch.
Adding it after the pasta also helps keep the dish lively and fresh. Enjoy your light and vibrant meal!
How to Make Lemon Zucchini Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Zucchini and Flavor:
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized or julienned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Zucchini Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch on a warm day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. This will help you when making the sauce!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is warmed up, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. We want to keep it flavorful, not burnt!
3. Add the Zucchini:
Now, add the spiralized or julienned zucchini to the skillet. Sauté the zucchini for 2-3 minutes. We want them to soften slightly but still have a little crunch. This adds a nice texture to the dish!
4. Combine Pasta and Zucchini:
Lower the heat, then add the drained pasta to the skillet with the zucchini and garlic. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta gets coated with the olive oil and garlic.
5. Create the Sauce:
Next, add the lemon zest and juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Toss everything together well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to help create a light sauce that clings to the pasta.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your pasta and sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, so everyone can squeeze a little extra lemon over their pasta for even more flavor!
Enjoy your fresh and zesty Lemon Zucchini Pasta! It’s a quick, flavorful dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti and linguine work great, feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Zucchini noodles can also be a fantastic low-carb option!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Zucchini?
If fresh zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash is a good substitute! Both will provide a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking.
How Can I Make This Dish More Filling?
To bulk it up, consider adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These options can enhance the meal while maintaining flavor!