This Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s made with fresh zucchini, buttery goodness, and just the right amount of cheese for a cozy meal.
Seriously, what’s better than pasta coated in creamy sauce? I love how quick it is to whip up – it’s perfect for busy nights. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good bowl of pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using spaghetti, but you can swap it for any pasta you enjoy, like penne or fettuccine. Whole wheat pasta is a healthier option if you want more fiber.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are best for this recipe. If you don’t have zucchini, you can try using grated or finely chopped carrots or yellow squash instead.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich flavor, but if you want it dairy-free, substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice creaminess. If you want a vegetarian option, look for Parmesan made without animal rennet. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute for a cheesy flavor.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a lovely aroma. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil will work too – use about one-third of the dried amount since it’s more potent.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy Without Heavy Cream?
The secret to the creamy texture lies in the combination of zucchini and pasta water! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Grate the zucchini coarsely to ensure it cooks quickly and releases moisture.
- By sautéing them with garlic and butter, the zucchini becomes tender and flavorful.
- Reserve pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps bind the sauce together, making it creamy without cream.
- Toss everything in the skillet gently. If you find the sauce too thick, gradually add more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Remember, the key is to be patient and let the ingredients blend well!
Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced thinly
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy pasta dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. So in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to serve! Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your spaghetti or pasta of choice. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining it!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
While the pasta is cooking, take those fresh zucchinis and grate them using a coarse grater. To help remove any excess moisture, lightly press the grated zucchini in a clean towel for a minute or so.
3. Sauté Garlic and Zucchini:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. Then, add the grated zucchini and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring it around until it softens.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese, sliced basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Pour in some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta gets nicely coated in that creamy zucchini butter sauce. Adjust the consistency with more pasta water as needed!
5. Season & Serve:
Finally, season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Divide the pasta into serving bowls, give a little drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top, and add extra Parmesan cheese and more basil if you like. Serve it up immediately and enjoy every bite!
This easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta is not just a feast for your taste buds, but also quite a colorful dish with fresh flavors. It’s simple, quick, and absolutely delightful! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust cooking times as necessary!
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, you can use grated carrots or yellow squash as an alternative. You can also try adding spinach or kale for a green boost!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the unsalted butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out.
