Description
A quick and delightful creamy zucchini pasta recipe that combines comfort and nutrition, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200 grams (7 oz) pasta – You can use penne, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.
- 2 medium zucchinis – Spiralized or cut into thin ribbons for a delightful texture.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced to add a fragrant flavor to the dish.
- 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream – This will create the creamy sauce that makes the dish so rich.
- 50 grams (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese – For that cheesy goodness that enhances the flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used for sautéing the garlic and zucchini.
- Freshly ground black pepper – To taste, adding a bit of spice to the dish.
- Fresh basil leaves – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
- Salt – To taste, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini by spiralizing or cutting them into thin ribbons.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, sauté minced garlic until golden brown, then add zucchini ribbons and sauté until tender.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pot, toss gently with the sauce and zucchini, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Choose firm, smooth-skinned zucchinis for the best flavor.
- Adjust the creaminess by using half-and-half or dairy-free alternatives if desired.
- Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: creamy zucchini pasta, quick pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, easy dinner recipe