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In the realm of culinary delights, few dishes manage to strike the perfect balance between indulgence and healthfulness quite like Zesty Creamy Zucchini Pasta. This recipe seamlessly marries the comforting heartiness of pasta with the bright, fresh flavors of zucchini, all enveloped in a luxurious, creamy sauce. Whether you’re pressed for time on a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, this dish shines with its versatility and ease of preparation.

Creamy Zucchini Pasta with Lemon

Discover the delicious balance of indulgence and health with Zesty Creamy Zucchini Pasta. This recipe combines the comforting texture of pasta with the fresh, vibrant flavors of zucchini, all wrapped in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners, it highlights the nutritional benefits of zucchini, packed with vitamins and fiber. With spiralizing techniques and simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that's both delightful and nutritious.
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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 option)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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 of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

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

      Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes.

        Add Parmesan: Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce appears too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.

          Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the creamy zucchini sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

            Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Zucchini Pasta!

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