Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Spaghetti is great, but you can use any pasta you like! Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta works well. Just follow the cooking time on the package.

Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are ideal because they have a good water content. If zucchinis aren’t available, you could substitute with shredded yellow squash or even finely chopped mushrooms for a different flavor.

Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best flavor control. You can replace it with olive oil or vegan butter if you prefer a dairy-free option.

Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely salty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan cheese. You can also use Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor.

Red Pepper Flakes: These add a nice kick. Feel free to adjust or omit them based on your heat preference. You might also try a dash of smoked paprika for a different spice profile.

How Do I Make My Pasta Creamy?

The creamy texture is key to this dish. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps emulsify the sauce.
• When adding the cheese, mix it into the zucchini and butter sauce off the heat to prevent it from clumping.
• If the dish feels dry, slowly add the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This helps create a smooth, creamy coating.
• Finally, make sure to cook the zucchini just until tender – overcooking can lead to a watery sauce!

With these tips, your Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta will be rich and delightful. Enjoy making it!

Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for finishing)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and 10 minutes sautéing the zucchini and mixing everything together. Quick and delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, then drain the pasta well.

2. Prepare the Zucchini:

While the pasta is cooking, take your zucchinis and grate them using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle it with a pinch of salt. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, gently squeeze the zucchini to remove any extra water.

3. Make the Zucchini Butter Sauce:

In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Next, add the grated zucchini into the skillet and cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened.

4. Combine Everything:

Now it’s time for a delicious mix! Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the zucchini. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and the sliced fresh basil. Toss everything together well. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach a creamy consistency.

5. Seasoning the Dish:

Adjust the flavor by seasoning with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste. Go easy on the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor!

6. Finish and Serve:

If you want, drizzle the optional olive oil over the top for extra richness. Serve your delicious creamy zucchini butter pasta immediately, garnished with more Parmesan cheese, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.

Enjoy your fresh, creamy, and comforting zucchini butter pasta!

FAQs for Easy Creamy Zucchini Butter Pasta

Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet. Keep in mind that frozen zucchini may have a different texture, but it will still work well in the sauce.

How Can I Make This Dish Vegan-friendly?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil. Replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Pasta?

Feel free to get creative! Spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes make great additions. You can sauté them along with the zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so everything gets cooked perfectly!

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil if it seems dry.