This Zucchini Butter Pasta is a delightful dish that’s simple and fresh! It features tender zucchini tossed in a rich, buttery sauce that coats each piece of pasta beautifully. Yum!
I love how quickly this meal comes together. It’s perfect for busy nights, and you can even add some cheese on top if you’re feeling cheesy! 🧀 Enjoy the flavors of summer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I suggest using spaghetti for this recipe, but feel free to try other pastas like fettuccine or penne. Just remember to adjust cooking times according to the package directions for whichever pasta you choose.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is crucial for this dish. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great substitute, imparting a similar texture and taste when grated.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt level. If you’re looking for a lighter option, olive oil can also work well and give a nice flavor to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a lovely aroma, but if you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch (about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove).
Basil: Fresh basil gives vibrant flavor. If it’s not available, you can use dried basil, but cut the amount in half since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creaminess in My Pasta?
Getting that creamy texture without heavy cream is all about using the pasta water wisely. The starch from the pasta helps create a silky sauce.
- Reserve a cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining.
- When combining the zucchini and pasta, start by adding a little reserved water at a time. Mix and see how the sauce develops.
- Keep tossing until you achieve the desired creaminess—don’t rush this step!
How to Make Zucchini Butter Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
For the Zucchini Sauce:
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
For Garnish:
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Zucchini Butter Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, so you can enjoy a warm dinner without spending a lot of time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. After reserving the water, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Zucchini:
Grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until it starts to smell amazing. Toss in the grated zucchini and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it softens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Pasta and Zucchini:
Now, add the drained pasta to your skillet with the zucchini mixture. Gently toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess—this might take just a few tablespoons or more!
4. Finish with Basil and Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together once more, adjusting the seasoning if needed. It should be flavorful and delicious!
5. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate your pasta! Serve it warm, and don’t forget to garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a bright touch. Enjoy your beautiful and tasty Zucchini Butter Pasta!
Can I Substitute Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the specific pasta you choose to ensure it’s perfectly al dente.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried basil, although the flavor will be different. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, or you can try other herbs like parsley or spinach for a different twist!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over low heat to help bring back some of the creaminess.
