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If you're seeking a delightful and health-conscious alternative to traditional pasta dishes, look no further than Zesty Creamy Zucchini Pasta. This recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients that not only tantalize your taste buds but also align with various dietary preferences. With its vibrant flavors of lemon and the subtle sweetness of zucchini, this creamy pasta dish stands out as both comforting and invigorating. Whether you're a devoted pasta enthusiast or someone looking to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this dish is sure to impress.

Creamy Zucchini Pasta with Lemon

Looking for a fresh and healthy pasta alternative? Try Zesty Creamy Zucchini Pasta! This delightful dish combines vibrant zucchini and creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for anyone wishing to enjoy a lighter meal. Packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, zucchini adds flavor and nutrition while keeping calories in check. Easy to make and adaptable to various dietary needs, this recipe will become a favorite for pasta lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike. Enjoy the satisfying taste of a comforting meal that’s also guilt-free!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or linguine

2 medium zucchinis, spiralized or thinly sliced

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Toasted pine nuts, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté Zucchini: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the spiralized or sliced zucchini, cooking for about 4-5 minutes, or until the zucchini is slightly tender yet still crisp.

      Create the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, along with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

        Incorporate Parmesan: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat it thoroughly with the creamy zucchini sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you desire an extra kick.

            Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta warm on plates, garnishing each serving with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for an added crunch. Enjoy your delightful Zesty Creamy Zucchini Pasta!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 servings