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zucchini pasta sauce in a rustic bowl with parmesan and fork

Simple Fresh Zucchini Pasta Sauce – A Light & Flavorful Summer Favorite


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  • Author: kai
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This simple zucchini pasta sauce is fresh, creamy (without cream), and perfect for quick summer dinners. It’s veggie-packed, ready in 30 minutes, and makes a flavorful vegetarian main or side.


Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs zucchini, diced (about 3 small–medium)

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter (divided)

½ small Vidalia onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 dash Italian seasoning

½ cup chicken or vegetable broth

1 tsp lemon juice

½ cup freshly grated parmesan

8 oz pasta (like fettuccine), cooked al dente

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

1. Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve some pasta water.

2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion in olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat for about 5 minutes.

3. Add zucchini, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add remaining 1 tbsp butter, broth, and lemon juice. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly reduced.

5. Stir in parmesan and cooked pasta. Toss to coat, adding a splash of pasta water if needed.

6. Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Notes

Best served fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat with a splash of broth or water to loosen.

Not recommended for freezing due to zucchini texture.

Optional add-ins: white wine instead of broth, fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, or cooked chicken/shrimp.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 382
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 366mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 26mg