This Easy Zucchini Butter Pasta is a wonderful go-to dish! It’s creamy, uses fresh zucchini, and is packed with flavors to make your taste buds dance.
You won’t believe how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy nights! I love to sprinkle some cheese on top for extra yumminess. It’s like a warm hug on your plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend spaghetti for its classic feel, but feel free to use any pasta you love! Fusilli, penne, or linguine work just as well. Gluten-free pasta is a great option too!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are key here, adding a lovely texture and moisture. If zucchini isn’t in season, summer squash can be a good substitute. You could also use finely chopped spinach for a different green vibe!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap it for olive oil or vegan butter. It won’t be quite the same, but it still tastes lovely!
Parmesan Cheese: For a rich flavor, Parmesan is my go-to. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, Pecorino Romano works well, or nutritional yeast gives a cheesy taste for a vegan version!
How Do I Make the Perfect Zucchini Butter Sauce?
The sauce is simple but requires a bit of attention! The key is to cook the zucchini gently to soften it while retaining some texture. Here’s how:
- Make sure to grating the zucchini finely, which helps it cook evenly.
- Lightly press the grated zucchini to remove excess moisture; this prevents a watery sauce.
- Cook the zucchini with butter until soft but not mushy, stirring frequently to avoid browning.
- Add back the drained pasta and the reserved cooking water slowly, mixing until you achieve a luscious sauce.
Enjoy watching the zucchini soak up the flavors while creating a creamy coating on your pasta!
Easy Zucchini Butter Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- For the Sauce:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for finishing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and boiling the pasta, followed by 10 minutes to bring the sauce together. It’s a quick meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or chosen pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta cooking water before you drain the pasta. It’ll come in handy later for the sauce!
2. Prep the Zucchini:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a box grater and grate the zucchinis using the large holes. After grating, take a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel and gently press the grated zucchini to remove some excess moisture. This helps to keep the dish from getting watery!
3. Make the Garlic Butter Base:
In a large skillet, melt your tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown; we just want it to become aromatic!
4. Add Zucchini:
Now add the grated zucchini to your skillet. Cook this mixture, stirring frequently, for about 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is softened but still has a slight bite to it. This will enhance the flavors and keep a nice texture!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Time to bring it all together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss it with the zucchini and garlic butter. This is where the magic of flavors starts to blend!
6. Stir In Cheese and Basil:
Next, sprinkle in your grated Parmesan cheese and the thinly sliced basil leaves. If you notice the pasta looking a bit dry, just gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach a silky, creamy consistency that coats the noodles nicely.
7. Season and Serve:
Finish off your dish by seasoning it with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). If you want an extra touch of richness, drizzle a little olive oil over the top. Give it one last gentle toss and then serve it up immediately!
This creamy, light pasta dish is bursting with fresh zucchini flavor and has the buttery richness that makes for a delightful meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Besides Zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchini is perfect for this dish, you can substitute other vegetables like yellow squash, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetable you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
No problem! To make this recipe vegan, replace the unsalted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Swap out Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese. The dish will still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil instead! Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but add it when you’re cooking the garlic so it can release its flavor. Alternatively, parsley or spinach can work nicely for a fresh touch.
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Butter Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen it up. Stir occasionally for even heating!
