Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo: Your New Favorite Spring Dish!

Are you searching for a dish that embodies the fresh, vibrant flavors of spring and summer, yet still delivers that comforting, creamy satisfaction we all crave? Look no further than the Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo! This trending recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, infusing bright citrus notes and aromatic basil with tender zucchini and a luscious Alfredo sauce. It's lighter than traditional Alfredo, but every bit as indulgent, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

This recipe is gaining popularity for its ability to combine fresh produce with a beloved pasta dish, offering a taste experience that is both refreshing and deeply flavorful. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for something new, this Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You'll Adore This Recipe

Fresh & Flavorful: The lemon and basil create a beautiful symphony of fresh tastes that perfectly complement the creamy Alfredo.
Vegetable-Packed: Zucchini adds a wonderful texture and a healthy boost, making this dish feel lighter without sacrificing richness.
Comfort Food with a Twist: It's got all the comforting creaminess of Alfredo, but with an exciting, zesty kick.
Relatively Quick: This elegant meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.

Ready to brighten up your mealtime? Let's get cooking!

Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo Recipe

Here’s everything you need to create this exquisite dish.

Yields: 4 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

8 ounces fettuccine or your favorite pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 medium zucchini, spiralized into "zoodles" or thinly sliced into half-moons
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus extra for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Equipment:

Large pot for pasta
Large skillet or sauté pan
Spiralizer (if making zucchini noodles)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Sauté Zucchini & Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Add the zucchini (zoodles or slices) and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp. Remove the zucchini and garlic from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine & Finish: Add the cooked pasta, sautéed zucchini, fresh lemon juice, and chopped basil to the Alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta cooking water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Expert Tips for Success

Fresh Ingredients are Key: Especially with the lemon juice and basil – fresh makes all the difference in this dish.
Don't Overcook Zucchini: You want the zucchini to be tender-crisp, not mushy, for the best texture.
Adjust Consistency: Use the reserved pasta water to thin the Alfredo sauce if it gets too thick. It's your secret weapon for a perfect consistency!
Protein Boost: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some crumbled Italian sausage to the dish.

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This Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It brings together the best of fresh, seasonal ingredients with the comforting familiarity of a classic pasta dish. Enjoy the delightful flavors and make this trending recipe a new favorite in your home!