Description
This Pasta with Creamy Zucchini Sauce is a delightful combination of tender pasta coated in a luscious, flavorful sauce made with fresh zucchini, rich cream, and Parmesan. Quick to prepare and endlessly satisfying, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Creamy Zucchini Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium onion, finely sliced
- 600g (1.2 lb) zucchini, grated
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup thickened/heavy cream
- 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 3/4 cup Parmesan, grated
- 1 cup corn (canned or fresh)
- For the Pasta:
- 300g (10 oz) spaghetti or similar pasta
- Salted water (for boiling)
- Optional Add-Ons:
- Extra Parmesan
- Fresh basil
- Crumbled bacon or pangrattato (toasted breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, reducing the cooking time by 2 minutes for a firm texture.
- Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Make the Creamy Zucchini Sauce:
- In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing for 1 1/2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the grated zucchini. Cook for 1 minute, then season with salt and pepper.
- Continue stirring for another 2 minutes until the zucchini reduces in volume by half.
- Pour in the cream and chicken or vegetable stock, stirring well.
- Sprinkle in the Parmesan and add the corn. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 3 minutes. The sauce will slightly thicken.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet.
- Toss the pasta with the sauce for 2 minutes until well coated. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or crumbled bacon for added flavor.
Notes
- Finely grate the zucchini to ensure it blends seamlessly into the sauce.
- Undercook the pasta slightly, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet and Tossed
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired