As the sun shines brightly this summer, it’s time to get creative with your pasta dishes! Zucchini is a perfect ingredient to incorporate into your recipes, as it’s light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. In this article, we’re excited to share 20 mouth-watering zucchini pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic combinations like garlic butter and parmesan to bold flavors like spicy Thai peanut noodles, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these zucchini pasta recipes offer endless possibilities for summer cooking. So, grab some fresh zucchinis and let the culinary fun begin! In this article, we’ll dive into each of the 20 delicious recipes below, starting with…
Garlic Butter Zucchini Noodles with Parmesan
Transform zucchini into a delicious and healthy noodle substitute, infused with the richness of garlic butter and the salty sweetness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat with garlic butter.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Avocado Zucchini Pasta
Add a touch of green to your pasta with this refreshing and healthy recipe. Creamy avocado sauce pairs perfectly with sautéed zucchini, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 medium avocados, ripe
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the avocado sauce over medium heat. Add sliced zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the zucchini mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Peanut Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the spicy kick of Thai chili peppers and the refreshing lightness of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon Thai red chili flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and add them to the skillet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, honey, ginger, and chili flakes.
4. Pour the peanut sauce over the zucchini noodles and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Pasta
A bright and flavorful summer pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender zucchini, and a burst of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add zucchini slices to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and zucchini mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
A summer twist on classic pasta, this recipe combines the sweetness of zucchini noodles with the tangy flavor of sun-dried tomato pesto. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (linguine or spaghetti work well)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler, create zucchini noodles.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
4. Add the pesto sauce to the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
5. Add the zucchini noodles and toss everything together until well coated with the pesto sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Zucchini Spaghetti with Mozzarella
Transform zucchinis into a delicious spaghetti substitute, paired with melted mozzarella cheese and fresh flavors. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into long, thin strips, similar to spaghetti.
3. In a large bowl, toss zucchini “noodles” with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until coated.
4. Spread the zucchini mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Basil Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing summer dish combines the flavors of basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zucchini noodles for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Process until well combined.
4. Cook the zucchini noodles in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
5. Toss the cherry tomatoes with a pinch of salt and roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
6. Combine the cooked zucchini noodles, basil pesto, and roasted cherry tomatoes. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Zucchini Pasta with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty one-pot pasta dish is a twist on the classic sausage and peppers, adding the freshness of zucchini for a flavorful and satisfying meal. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and peppers; cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the pasta, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Zucchini Carbonara with Bacon and Peas
This creamy pasta dish gets a refreshing boost from zucchini, crispy bacon, and sweet peas. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute. Then, add spiralized zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in frozen peas and cook until thawed. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt. Add cooked spaghetti and toss to combine.
6. Add zucchini mixture and crispy bacon to the egg mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Zucchini Pasta with Feta and Olives
Mediterranean Zucchini Pasta with Feta and Olives: A flavorful and refreshing pasta dish that combines the sweetness of zucchini with the tanginess of feta and olives, all tied together with a hint of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spiralized zucchini to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in feta cheese, olives, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and zucchini mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Veggies
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and nutritious pasta dish, featuring tender zucchini noodles, fresh vegetables, and a hint of garlic. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, cherry tomatoes)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Spiralize the zucchini into noodles and sauté in olive oil until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, then add mixed vegetables and garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Combine cooked pasta, zucchini noodles, and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Zucchini Noodles
Spicy Arrabbiata Zucchini Noodles Recipe
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a spicy kick, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup Arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the Arrabbiata sauce and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with the sauce for 2-3 minutes, until they’re well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Pasta Alfredo with Mushrooms
Experience the comfort of a classic pasta dish elevated by the freshness of zucchini and earthiness of mushrooms. This recipe combines sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions with a rich and creamy sauce, served over al dente zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz zucchini noodles
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, garlic, and onions over medium-high heat until tender.
3. Add butter and stir until melted. Then add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly.
5. Combine cooked zucchini noodles with mushroom sauce and toss with Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai with Chicken
Transform traditional Pad Thai into a healthier and fresher dish by substituting noodles with zucchini noodles, or “zoodles.” This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with lean chicken and nutrient-rich vegetables for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken in coconut oil until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Prepare zoodles by spiralizing zucchinis.
4. Combine cooked chicken mixture with zoodles, soy sauce, tamarind paste, and honey.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts and serve with mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Zucchini Pasta with Grilled Chicken
A flavorful and refreshing summer dinner that combines the brightness of pesto with the sweetness of grilled chicken and zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Slice zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce, Parmesan cheese, and grilled chicken. Top with sliced zucchinis and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Spaghetti with Clams and White Wine Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the ease of a one-pot dish, perfect for a quick yet impressive meal. Sliced zucchini replaces traditional pasta in this creative take on spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add zucchini slices; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add clams, white wine, clam juice, and lemon juice. Cook, covered, until clams open, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Creamy Cashew Sauce
Transform traditional pasta into a healthier and tastier option with this simple recipe featuring zucchini noodles and a creamy cashew sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup raw cashews
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse with cold water.
4. Blend the cashews, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
5. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
6. Toss the cooked zucchini noodles with the creamy cashew sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes
This summer-inspired pasta dish combines the flavors of roasted garlic, sweet cherry tomatoes, and tender zucchini to create a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 3-4 garlic cloves
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic: Cut the top off each garlic clove, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Sauté the zucchini: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced zucchinis and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine ingredients: Toss cooked pasta with roasted garlic, sautéed zucchini, cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Tofu
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to enjoy the taste of summer with zucchini noodles, crispy tofu, and savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook zucchinis using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create noodle-like strands.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add zucchini noodles and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional minute to combine.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 30 seconds.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Pasta with Lemon Herb Butter and Shrimp
This recipe combines the sweetness of zucchini, the zestiness of lemon, and the tenderness of shrimp to create a refreshing springtime pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add zucchini to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate skillet, sauté shrimp in a little olive oil until pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, zucchini mixture, and shrimp. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a refreshing summer with these delicious zucchini pasta recipes! From classic pairings to international twists, we’ve got you covered. Try Garlic Butter Zucchini Noodles with Parmesan, Creamy Avocado Zucchini Pasta, or Spicy Thai Peanut Zucchini Noodles. Add some seafood flair with Lemon Garlic Shrimp Zucchini Pasta or Baked Zucchini Spaghetti with Mozzarella. Or, go Mediterranean with Zucchini Carbonara with Bacon and Peas, Feta and Olives, or Primavera with Seasonal Veggies. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got a zucchini pasta recipe to satisfy your cravings!
Leave a Reply