Description
A creamy and vibrant Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo featuring tender zucchini, bright lemon, and fresh basil in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. This Italian-American main course offers a perfect balance of tangy citrus and savory flavors, ideal for a comforting summer meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for mild heat
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
- Sauté the Zucchini: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Flavor the Sauce: Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Finish with Basil: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving. Optionally, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes over the top for added flavor and mild heat.
Notes
- Use a mix of yellow squash and zucchini to add color and variety.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp to boost protein content.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce; the texture will be slightly thinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
