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Lemon Zucchini Rigatoni

Lemon Zucchini Rigatoni: A Creamy Twist for Dinner Bliss

Enjoy the zesty flavors of Lemon Zucchini Rigatoni, a quick vegetarian dish that's creamy and satisfying.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Rigatoni Pasta Opt for high-quality, bronze-cut types.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil Choose a high-quality oil.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is preferred.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Use freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Zucchini Choose firm, vibrant zucchinis.
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated.
For Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rigatoni.
  2. In a large skillet, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add sliced zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
  3. Gently add drained rigatoni pasta to the skillet. Pour in freshly squeezed lemon juice and toss together for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture, stirring gently. If dry, add reserved pasta water gradually to create creaminess.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Toss again to distribute flavors.
  6. Plate the Lemon Zucchini Rigatoni and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to mix in your favorite proteins or other vegetables to customize this dish.

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