Description
This light and refreshing Lemon Zucchini Pasta combines tender sautéed zucchini with bright lemon juice and zest, garlic, and butter, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Finished with parmesan cheese and optional toasted pine nuts, this dish is a quick, flavorful weeknight meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Nuts
- 8 oz pasta (cooked)
- 1/3 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 2 zucchini (diced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Seasonings and Dairy
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (amount to taste, optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Toast Pine Nuts: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. If using pine nuts, toast them in a small skillet over medium-low heat until they turn golden and fragrant, then set aside.
- Sauté Zucchini: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and a pinch of salt, sautéing for 3 to 4 minutes until the zucchini becomes tender but still holds its shape.
- Add Garlic and Lemon: Stir in the minced garlic and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant. Then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes if using, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
- Toss Pasta with Zucchini Mixture: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the zucchini and lemon mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with grated parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best citrus flavor.
- To make it vegan, substitute butter with olive oil and omit parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
- Pine nuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted if you have nut allergies.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit them for a milder dish.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it feels too dry when tossing.
