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
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