Introduction
Discover a delightful way to enjoy one of summer’s freshest vegetables with this zucchini pasta recipe from Love and Lemons. This dish showcases the versatility of zucchini while providing a light and satisfying meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. Not only is it a fantastic vegetarian option, but it also features the bright flavors of lemon, fresh herbs, and cheese, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds zucchini (about 4 medium)
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 shallots, chopped (⅔ cup)
1 teaspoon sea salt
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Freshly ground black pepper
4 garlic cloves, grated
12 ounces spaghetti or bucatini pasta
⅓ cup grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon (reserve some for garnish)
1 cup fresh basil and/or mint leaves
Prep Time
Approximately 10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Grate the zucchini
Use the large holes of a box grater to grate the zucchini. Transfer the grated zucchini to a clean kitchen towel and wring out the excess moisture.
Sauté the vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots, grated zucchini, sea salt, red pepper flakes, and several grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the mixture becomes thick and jammy. Stir in the grated garlic.
Cook the pasta
While the zucchini mixture is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Combine pasta and zucchini mixture
Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked pasta directly from the pot to the skillet with the zucchini mixture, reserving the pasta cooking water. Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and the grated cheese to the skillet. Cook, tossing the pasta, for 2 to 3 minutes, or until a lightly creamy sauce coats the pasta. Add more pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Add lemon and herbs
Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and the lemon zest. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as desired.
Serve
Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Top with fresh basil and/or mint leaves, reserved lemon zest, and additional grated cheese.
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe serves 4.
Preparation Time
The dish takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare.
Cook techniques
Grating Zucchini
Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. This technique helps to break down the zucchini, making it easier to cook and blend into the pasta dish. After grating, use a clean kitchen towel to wring out the excess moisture, which helps prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Sautéing Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped shallots, grated zucchini, and seasoning to create a thick and jammy vegetable mixture. This cooking method enhances the flavors through caramelization and allows the vegetables to soften.
Cooking Pasta
Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures the pasta retains some bite, which is essential for good texture in the finished dish.
Combining Pasta with Sauce
Transfer cooked pasta directly from the pot to the skillet with the zucchini mixture. By adding reserved pasta cooking water and grated cheese, you create a lightly creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Adjust the sauce’s consistency with additional pasta water if needed.
Adding Lemon and Fresh Herbs
Incorporate lemon juice and zest into the dish for brightness and acidity. Stir in fresh basil and/or mint leaves at the end to add freshness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like yellow squash, carrots, or even eggplant, keeping in mind the cooking times may vary.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta to adapt this recipe for gluten sensitivities or dietary needs.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be great additions for extra protein.
What can I substitute for pecorino or Parmesan cheese?
Nutritional yeast is a popular dairy-free substitute, or you can use a vegan cheese alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Conclusion
This Zucchini Pasta recipe is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that transforms simple zucchini into a flavorful dish. The combination of sautéed shallots, garlic, and a touch of lemon creates a light and refreshing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the harmonious balance of flavors and textures while embracing the health benefits of vegetables.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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