Description
This Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo is a delightful twist on the classic Alfredo, combining creamy parmesan sauce with fresh lemon zest and aromatic basil. Thinly sliced zucchini adds a light, healthy touch, balancing the richness of the butter and cream. Perfect for a satisfying yet refreshing dinner, this recipe serves 6 and cooks in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb linguine or fettuccine
Sauce and Vegetables
- 6 tbsp salted butter
- 1 lemon, sliced, seeds removed
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 zucchini or yellow summer squash, very thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Chili flakes, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Lemon and Zucchini: Add the sliced lemon and thinly sliced zucchini or summer squash to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften.
- Season and Herbs: Stir in fresh thyme leaves, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes according to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Create Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese while stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat it with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Finish with Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving to keep its bright flavor and color.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional parmesan, basil leaves, or lemon zest if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this fresh, flavorful twist on classic Alfredo pasta.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon slices to add brightness without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- Adjust chili flakes for mild to moderate heat according to preference.
- To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but sauce consistency may differ.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick during mixing.
- Freshly grated parmesan melts better and enhances sauce texture and flavor.
