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Dinner

Lemony Zucchini Pasta

This bright and creamy zucchini pasta is the perfect way to use up your garden harvest.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 Italian· July 14, 2026
Lemony Zucchini Pasta
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
10 minutes
Cook
20 minutes
Total
30 minutes
Serves
4

There is something truly magical about how fried zucchini transforms into a silky, jammy sauce when tossed with pasta water and cheese. This recipe is a light and vibrant take on a classic Italian dish that has become a permanent staple in my kitchen during the summer months.

The secret here is to fry your zucchini slices until they are deeply golden brown. While it takes a little extra time at the stove, this step is what makes the dish special. A generous splash of lemon juice and fresh basil at the end brings everything together for a meal that feels fresh and fancy.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 3 medium zucchini, sliced into thin coins
  • 1/2 cup olive oil for frying
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until it is al dente.

  2. 2

    While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat.

  3. 3

    Fry the zucchini slices in batches until they are golden brown and tender, then set them aside on a paper towel lined plate.

  4. 4

    Reserve one cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the spaghetti.

  5. 5

    Return the cooked pasta to the pot and add the fried zucchini, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.

  6. 6

    Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water and toss everything together vigorously until a creamy, glossy sauce forms.

  7. 7

    Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper before serving immediately.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. If you find the pasta looks a bit dry when reheating, add a small splash of water or a tiny drizzle of olive oil to loosen the sauce back up.

#Vegetarian#Pasta#Summer#Quick Dinner

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