Description
This Zucchini Parmesan Pasta comes together quickly with just a few ingredients. Tender zucchini, garlic, and Parmesan cheese coat perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying, fresh, and easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
8 oz spaghetti or linguine
2 medium zucchinis, grated or spiralized
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add grated zucchini, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
4. Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss with zucchini, Parmesan, and reserved pasta water until creamy.
5. Stir in lemon juice if using. Adjust seasoning.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Use a mandoline or box grater for quick zucchini prep.
Add rotisserie chicken or grilled shrimp for protein.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: zucchini pasta, parmesan pasta, quick pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta