Description
This Crispy Zucchini Spaghetti is a delightful and easy Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, toasted panko breadcrumbs, and a zesty lemon basil finish. Perfect for a light yet flavorful vegetarian main course, it combines the textures of sautéed zucchini and crispy breadcrumbs with classic Parmesan and fresh herbs for an ultimate pasta experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated or spiralized
Cheese and Breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Oils, Butter, and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Herbs and Citrus
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set aside.
- Sauté the Zucchini: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the grated or spiralized zucchini, season with salt and black pepper, and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp. Remove the zucchini from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Breadcrumbs: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast them in the skillet for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low. Return the sautéed zucchini to the skillet, then add the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together throughly, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help the ingredients meld smoothly.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well to combine and serve the dish warm. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan and toasted breadcrumbs on top for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, place the grated zucchini on paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
