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Lemon Zucchini Pasta

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Lemon Zucchini Pasta is a light, fresh, and zesty pasta dish made with thinly sliced sautéed zucchini, aromatic garlic, and a bright splash of lemon juice and zest. It comes together quickly and is perfect for spring and summer meals. This pasta is easy to customize and ideal for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 250g (about 9 oz) pasta of your choice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
  • ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the zucchini:
    While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes undisturbed until slightly golden. Stir and sauté for another 3–4 minutes until tender.
  3. Add garlic:
    Add minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. If using chili flakes, stir them in now.
  4. Add lemon:
    Pour in lemon juice and add lemon zest. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 1 minute. If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  5. Combine with pasta:
    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta with the zucchini and lemon mixture. Gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve a silky texture.
  6. Finish the dish:
    Turn off the heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese if using, and add chopped parsley or basil. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

For added protein, mix in grilled chicken ham or crispy turkey bacon.

To make this vegan, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese substitute.

Optional toppings: toasted breadcrumbs, crushed nuts, or nutritional yeast.

This dish is best served immediately while warm and fresh.

Find it online: https://quickrecipetricks.com/lemon-zucchini-pasta/