Pasta con Zucchine e Limone: A Fresh Italian Delight

Quick Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes (optional)
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: Low (around $10 total)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main course
• Equipment Needed:
  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Strainer
  • Wooden spoon
  • Zester or grater

Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  Pasta con Zucchine e Limone  here 

Ingredients

• Pasta: 400g (spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta of your choice)
• Zucchini: 2 medium-sized, sliced into thin rounds
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Lemon: 1 (zested and juiced)
• Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
• Parmesan cheese: 50g, grated (optional)
• Salt: to taste
• Black pepper: to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley: for garnish (optional)

Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making Pasta con Zucchine e Limone  here 

Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add Pasta: Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
3. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta in a strainer and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Zucchini

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
2. Add Garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!).
3. Cook Zucchini: Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and lightly golden, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Mix Pasta with Zucchini: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the zucchini. Toss to combine.
2. Add Lemon: Pour in the lemon juice and zest. Stir well, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
3. Season: Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
2. Enjoy: Let me show you how I make this dish come alive with flavors!

Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making Pasta con Zucchine e Limone  here 

Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Swap Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.
• Make It Vegan: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Tips and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
• Add Spice: If you enjoy a kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making Pasta con Zucchine e Limone  here 

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g

Troubleshooting Tips

• Pasta Sticking Together: Ensure you stir the pasta occasionally while cooking, and don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to loosen it up later.
• Too Dry: If the pasta seems dry, just add a little more reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.