Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic favorite with our Creamy Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo. This dish combines the fresh, light flavors of zucchini and basil with the rich creaminess of traditional Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a summer dinner or a healthy yet comforting meal, this recipe offers a guilt-free alternative to the classic pasta Alfredo, without compromising on flavor.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 250g)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
Ingredients
- 600g (1.3 lbs) zucchini, spiralized
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 200ml (3/4 cup) heavy cream
- 60g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: additional Parmesan cheese for garnish
Method of Preparation
- Spiralize the zucchini into noodles. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the lemon zest and juice, mixing well to incorporate.
- Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss to coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the zucchini noodles are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Stir in the chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Divide the zucchini pasta Alfredo among four bowls. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: To maintain a pleasant texture, avoid overcooking the zucchini noodles. They should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Add it at the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and aroma.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate the Parmesan cheese freshly if possible. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I use another type of vegetable instead of zucchini? A: Yes, you can use other vegetables like carrots, squash, or cucumber for variety.
- Q: Can I make this dish vegan? A: Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the zucchini.
Enjoy a fresh and creamy meal with our Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo. This dish brings together the best of summer flavors in a light, healthy pasta alternative that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.