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Welcome to the vibrant world of Zesty Lemon Zucchini Pasta, a dish that beautifully marries the freshness of garden vegetables with the comforting feel of pasta. This recipe is a perfect example of how we can enjoy the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine while making it lighter and more health-conscious. Zucchini, often hailed as a superstar in the realm of healthy cooking, serves as an excellent substitute for traditional pasta, offering a refreshing twist that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Lemon Zucchini Pasta

Discover the delightful flavors of Zesty Lemon Zucchini Pasta, a refreshing and health-conscious alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Featuring spiralized zucchini, this recipe is not only low in calories but also packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants. With a vibrant mix of ingredients like garlic, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any meal. Enjoy a light, nutritious dining experience that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis, spiralized

8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti (gluten-free if desired)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon (zested and juiced)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Optional: red pepper flakes, for heat

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

    Prepare Zucchini: While the pasta cooks, spiralize the zucchinis using a spiralizer. If you don’t have one, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons instead.

      Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.

        Add Tomatoes and Zucchini: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and spiralized zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is slightly tender but still al dente.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with lemon juice, lemon zest, and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently until evenly mixed.

            Season and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If you enjoy a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

              Plate and Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil and cheese if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings