This Zucchini Butter Pasta is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy days. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll get creamy goodness from butter and fresh zucchini.
It feels like summer on a plate! I love how the zucchini adds a nice pop of color and flavor. Pair it with some grated cheese, and you have a dish that warms the heart.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using spaghetti, but feel free to swap it for any pasta you prefer, like fettuccine or penne. Gluten-free pasta works too if you have dietary needs.
Zucchini: Grated zucchini gives the dish a fresh texture. If zucchini isn’t in season, you could use yellow squash or even finely shredded carrots for a different flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for flavor control. If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan butter or a high-quality olive oil instead, which adds a nice richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for its strong flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder instead. Remember, take it easy with the amounts as dried garlic is more potent!
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic burst. If you can’t find fresh, dried basil works in a pinch; just use less, as it’s more concentrated.
How Can I Cook Zucchini Without It Getting Soggy?
Cooking zucchini properly is crucial to avoid a watery dish. Grating the zucchini helps it blend well with the pasta, but be sure to cook it until it’s just tender. Here’s how:
- After grating the zucchini, squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. This prevents sogginess.
- Cook the zucchini in the skillet for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender but still has some bite.
Remember, patience is key! Letting it sit too long creates more liquid. Enjoy your perfectly cooked zucchini in this pasta dish!
How to Make Zucchini Butter Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
For the Sauce:
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti (or pasta of choice) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This will help to create a nice sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the grated zucchini to the skillet with the garlic. Stir it all together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the zucchini to become tender and start breaking down a bit.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once your zucchini is cooked, add the drained spaghetti into the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss in the chopped basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the pasta is nicely coated with the sauce.
5. Let It Simmer:
Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Dish the pasta into bowls and top with extra basil, a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy your delicious zucchini butter pasta!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary from the spaghetti instructions.
Can I Substitute the Butter for a Healthier Option?
Yes, you can replace the unsalted butter with olive oil for a healthier option! Use about 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil instead. This will give the dish a lovely depth of flavor and a Mediterranean twist.
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Butter Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can add a splash of water or broth and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a protein boost. Just mix them in during the last couple of minutes of cooking to heat through and combine the flavors.
