Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo is a delightful, refreshing twist on the classic Alfredo pasta. Combining the lightness of zucchini noodles with the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce, accented by the zest of lemon and the fresh aroma of basil, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you're looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta or simply want to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent meal, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
To prepare Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo, you will need the following ingredients:
• 4 medium zucchinis
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes and grilled chicken for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
Begin by washing the zucchinis thoroughly. Using a spiralizer, cut the zucchinis into noodle-like strands. If you don't have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or a mandoline. Set the zucchini noodles aside while you prepare the Alfredo sauce.
2. Cook the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Add Lemon Zest and Juice
Incorporate the lemon zest and lemon juice into the Alfredo sauce. The lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the richness of the sauce, while the juice provides a bit of acidity to balance the creaminess. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
5. Season the Sauce
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that Parmesan cheese is already salty, so start with a small amount of salt and adjust according to your preference.
6. Combine the Zucchini Noodles and Sauce
Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the noodles gently to coat them evenly with the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the zucchini noodles are tender but still slightly crisp. Be careful not to overcook the zucchini noodles, as they can become mushy.
7. Add Fresh Basil
Once the zucchini noodles are cooked to your liking, stir in the chopped fresh basil. The basil adds a wonderful herbal note that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
8. Serve
Transfer the Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo to serving plates. For an extra touch, you can garnish the dish with halved cherry tomatoes and grilled chicken. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and sweetness, while the grilled chicken provides additional protein, making the dish more substantial.
Conclusion
Lemon Basil Zucchini Pasta Alfredo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light main course or a side dish. Its combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, zesty lemon, and fresh basil creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Enjoy the delightful taste of summer in every bite!
Comments
Post a Comment