Caramelized Zucchini Pasta: Golden Caramelized Meal!

Caramelized Zucchini Pasta is a delightful and savory dish that adds a rich twist to your traditional pasta. This yummy recipe transforms fresh zucchini into a caramelized, golden-brown topping that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta, creating a deliciously satisfying meal for any occasion.

To create this delightful dish, simply sauté zucchini until it caramelizes, then toss it with pasta and a little bit of garlic and parmesan for a delicious combination. The result is a flavorful and beautiful meal that’s sure to be loved by everyone.

Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or a cozy night in, Caramelized Zucchini Pasta is easy to make and offers a unique flavor. Each bite has a blend of sweet and savory goodness of caramelized zucchini. Taste the deliciousness of Caramelized Zucchini Pasta and bring a new touch of flavor to your recipe book.

Caramelized Zucchini Pasta

Caramelized Zucchini Pasta

Caramelized Zucchini Pasta features tender pasta tossed with sweet, golden-brown zucchini, garlic, and herbs. The rich, caramelized flavor of the zucchini blends perfectly with a light, savory sauce, creating a deliciously balanced and satisfying meal that's both unique and comforting.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 people
Calories 510 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
  • cups Caesar-style seasoned croutons,
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • cup grated parmesan, divided
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1 tsp grated lemon zest
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper, more to taste
  • 4 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fine salt, as needed
  • 2 medium shallots peeled and thinly sliced
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 large zucchini
  • 1 lb spaghetti or long pasta of choice

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups crushed Caesar-style croutons with half the parmesan, 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  • Season with salt and black pepper, then set aside.
  • Cook 1 pound of spaghetti or other long pasta in well-salted boiling water according to package instructions for al dente.
  • Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  • Meanwhile, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add 3 large zucchini (sliced into 1/4-inch rounds), 2 medium shallots (thinly sliced), and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  • Cook, stirring often, until zucchini is softened and browned, about 20 to 25 minutes.
  • Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper, cooking until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Add 2 tablespoons pasta water, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
  • Return pasta to the pot over medium heat.
  • Add 1 cup pasta water and 2 ounces cream cheese, stirring until the cream cheese melts and coats the pasta.
  • Mix in the caramelized vegetables and the remaining parmesan.
  • Toss to combine and coat the pasta with the sauce.
  • Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
  • Season with salt, black pepper, and additional crushed red pepper to taste.
  • Add most of the fresh basil leaves, reserving some for garnish.
  • If needed, add more pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  • Serve topped with crouton breadcrumbs and reserved basil leaves.
Keyword caramelized zucchini pasta, caramelized zucchini pasta recipe

Nutrition Facts:

NutritionValue
Calories510 kcal
Carbohydrates73 g
Protein16 g
Vitamin C23 mg
Iron4 mg
Sugar7 g
Calcium141 mg

Does Zucchini Pasta Taste Like Traditional Pasta?

Caramelized Zucchini Pasta

Zucchini noodles don’t have the exact same flavor as regular pasta, but if cooked properly to an al dente texture, they offer a surprisingly satisfying alternative.

Is Zucchini Pasta A Healthy Option?

Zucchini is low in fat, sugar, and calories while being rich in vitamin C and fiber. This makes it a nutritious substitute for traditional pasta noodles.

What Flavor Does Zucchini Have?

Zucchini has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and takes on the taste of the ingredients it’s cooked with. Its pale flesh, skin, and seeds are all edible and nutrient-rich.

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Archie Johnson

Hi! I’m Archie Johnson

Archie Johnson is a San Diego-born home cook who turns her kitchen into a playground of flavors. With a passion for California's vibrant food scene and a knack for creating delicious, approachable recipes, she's on a mission to show that great cooking is about joy, not perfection.

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