Creamy Courgette Pasta

Looking for a lighter, yet indulgent pasta dish? This Creamy Courgette Pasta is a dream! The courgette (zucchini) is transformed into a velvety creamy sauce that coats your pasta beautifully, making it feel rich without being heavy. It’s fresh, comforting, and packed with flavor that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself to something special, even on a weeknight. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Courgette Pasta:

• Light Yet Creamy: The courgette brings a fresh, light flavor while the creaminess adds that indulgent touch you crave.
• Quick & Easy: Perfect for those nights when you need something delicious, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Healthy Twist: The courgette replaces traditional creamy ingredients, making this pasta lighter but still oh-so-satisfying.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite herbs, spices, or even protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for extra flavor!

Ingredients:

• 2 medium courgettes (zucchini), grated or spiralized
• 250g pasta (any variety you like, such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for a richer flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Note: The full list of ingredients with measurements is provided in the recipe card above.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

• Add the grated courgette to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and releases some of its moisture.
• Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and cook for another 2 minutes to combine everything.
• Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to mix. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the creamy courgette sauce. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta if needed.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using) and toss until well combined and creamy.

5. Serve & Garnish

• Divide the creamy courgette pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for the Best Creamy Courgette Pasta:

• For extra flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of nutmeg to brighten the creamy sauce.
• Make it more filling: Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon to make it a heartier meal.
• Use a spiralizer: If you want to reduce the amount of pasta and make it lighter, spiralize some courgette into “noodles” and mix them with the pasta for a veggie-packed twist.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 10g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A1: Yes, absolutely! Simply swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or oat cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Q2: Can I use other vegetables instead of courgette?
A2: Of course! You can use other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even cauliflower for a different twist. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A3: This pasta is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Q4: What can I add to this dish for extra protein?
A4: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would be excellent additions to make this meal more filling. You can also add some crispy bacon for a savory crunch.

Q5: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A5: Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer—spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta all work well in this recipe.

Q6: How can I make this pasta spicier?
A6: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some freshly ground black pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top when serving.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store leftover creamy courgette pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.

Q8: Can I freeze this recipe?
A8: This pasta doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy sauce. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you do freeze it, the texture may change when reheated.

Q9: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A9: Yes, use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream or almond milk, and omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese.

Q10: What can I serve with this creamy courgette pasta?
A10: This pasta pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, add a side of grilled chicken or a fresh tomato basil salad.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Courgette Pasta is a perfect blend of freshness and indulgence, offering a comforting yet light meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is quick to make and guaranteed to be a hit. So, grab some courgettes and your favorite pasta, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness!

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