Go Back
The summer season brings an abundance of fresh produce, and what better way to celebrate than with a light and flavorful Lemon Zest Summer Squash Pasta? This dish effortlessly combines the vibrant tastes of summer squash and zucchini with a creamy lemon sauce, creating a delightful meal perfect for warm evenings. As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, this pasta recipe not only satisfies the palate but also showcases the best of what summer has to offer.

Summer Squash Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce

Embrace the flavors of summer with this simple and delicious Lemon Zest Summer Squash Pasta. Combining fresh summer squash and zucchini with a creamy lemon sauce, this dish celebrates seasonal produce and is ideal for warm evenings. Easy to make and full of nutrients, it pairs perfectly with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine. Elevate your summer meals and impress your family and friends with this vibrant and flavorful recipe. Enjoy a taste of sunshine on your plate!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice

2 medium summer squash, thinly sliced

1 small zucchini, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup heavy cream

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper, to taste

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the sliced summer squash and zucchini. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

      Make the Lemon Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

        Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon cream sauce and sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together to combine, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

          Serve: Plate the pasta in bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Add more lemon zest on top for an extra citrus burst if desired.

            Enjoy: Serve immediately and relish the light, summery flavors of your dish!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4