This Easy Zucchini Butter Pasta is a quick dish that features fresh zucchini tossed in buttery goodness and pasta. It’s light, creamy, and oh-so-delicious!
I love how simple it is to make! Just sauté the zucchini, mix it with butter and pasta, and you’re all set. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this dish. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too! They have similar textures and will blend nicely with the pasta.
Pasta: Spaghetti is a classic choice for this recipe, but feel free to use any pasta you like – penne, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute with olive oil or a non-dairy butter. Both will add lovely flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the dish’s creaminess. If you’re vegetarian or don’t have Parmesan, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy touch without dairy!
How Do You Perfectly Sauté Zucchini?
Getting the zucchini just right is crucial for a great flavor and texture. Follow these steps to sauté it perfectly:
- After shredding the zucchini, gently squeeze it to remove excess moisture. This helps avoid a watery sauce.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the grated zucchini and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it tender but still vibrant.
- Mix in red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper.
Easy Zucchini Butter Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped for garnish
- Olive oil for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later.
2. Sauté the Zucchini:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then, add the grated zucchini to the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but still bright in color. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point!
3. Combine Pasta and Zucchini:
Once the zucchini is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to soak up some of that delicious buttery zucchini flavor. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems dry, you can add a bit of olive oil or more pasta water.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the pasta and finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves on top. A light drizzle of olive oil can add even more flavor. Enjoy your easy and tasty zucchini butter pasta!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star here, you can mix in or substitute other veggies like spinach, kale, or even asparagus. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure everything becomes tender and delicious.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for Parmesan, nutritional yeast is a great option for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Alternatively, you could use Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese you enjoy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and warm gently on the stove or microwave to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Pasta Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of unsalted butter, and swap out Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. The dish will still be creamy and flavorful!
