Zucchini Pasta with Pine Nuts Recipe

Celebrate the flavors of summer with this savory zucchini pasta with pine nuts recipe. The dish combines tender pasta, golden toasted pine nuts, and vibrant zucchini for a light and satisfying meal. With a hint of lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, it's the perfect balance of robust flavor and fresh ingredients. The recipe is easy to follow and can be done in a short time, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch.

Photos of Zucchini Pasta with Pine Nuts Recipe

Pine nuts, one of the key ingredients, are seeds that come from pine cones. They might not be a staple in your pantry, but they are worth picking up from the supermarket. They add a unique flavor and crunch to the pasta. Zucchini, a versatile summer squash, is another star of this recipe. When shopping for zucchini, look for ones that are firm and have a bright green skin.

Ingredients for Zucchini Pasta with Pine Nuts

Pine nuts: These are used for their crunchy texture and unique, slightly sweet flavor.

Spaghetti: It works as the base of this dish, delivering a satisfying bite.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion, garlic, and zucchini, as well as adding a rich flavor.

Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.

Garlic: Gives an aromatic and savory taste.

Zucchini: It's the main vegetable in this dish, offering a soft texture and mild flavor.

Lemon juice: Brightens the dish with its acidity.

Italian seasoning: Enhances the dish with a blend of traditional Italian herbs.

Salt and ground black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.

Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, salty flavor, and it’s a classic topping for pasta dishes.

Roma tomato: Adds a fresh and slightly acidic flavor.

One reader, Adriane Holloway says:

This zucchini pasta with pine nuts recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The pine nuts add a delightful crunch, and the zucchini is a refreshing twist. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pasta game with a healthy and delicious option.

Adriane Holloway

Techniques Required for Zucchini Pasta With Pine Nuts Recipe

How to toast pine nuts: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and stir pine nuts for about 5 minutes until they are toasted and fragrant.

How to cook spaghetti: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti in the boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is cooked through but firm to the bite. Drain and return the pasta to the pot to keep warm.

How to sauté onion and garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic for 5 to 10 minutes until the onion softens.

How to cook zucchini: Add zucchini, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the zucchini is translucent.

How to simmer zucchini in milk: Pour milk over the zucchini mixture and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until the zucchini is softened.

How to assemble the dish: Transfer the pasta mixture to plates and top each with parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, tomato, and black pepper.

How To Make Zucchini Pasta with Pine Nuts

This zucchini pasta dish has slices of fresh zucchinis and tomatoes tossed together with crispy pine nuts for a fresh and quick meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbsppine nuts
6ozthin spaghetti
3tbspolive oil
½yellow onion,diced
3clovesgarlic,pressed
1zucchini,thinly sliced into rounds
2tbsplemon juice
2tspItalian seasoning
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
½cupmilk
½cupparmesan cheese,grated
1roma tomato,diced

Instructions

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; cook and stir pine nuts in the hot skillet for about 5 minutes until toasted and fragrant.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti in the boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite. Drain and return pasta to pot to keep warm.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; saute onion and garlic for 5 to 10 minutes until onion softens. Add zucchini, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook and stir for about 5 minutes until zucchini is translucent.
Pour milk over zucchini mixture and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until zucchini is softened; add pasta and toss.
Transfer pasta mixture to plates and top each with Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, tomato, and black pepper.

Nutrition

Calories: 813.21kcal
Fat: 42.35g
Saturated Fat: 11.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 20.62g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.41g
Carbohydrates: 80.40g
Fiber: 5.88g
Sugar: 11.15g
Protein: 30.39g
Cholesterol: 31.38mg
Sodium: 926.29mg
Calcium: 588.62mg
Potassium: 812.82mg
Iron: 4.20mg
Vitamin A: 130.18µg
Vitamin C: 32.01mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Zucchini Pasta

Toasting the pine nuts before adding them to the dish will enhance their flavor and give them a nice crunch. Be sure to keep an eye on them while they're in the skillet, as they can burn quickly. Also, when sautéing the zucchini, make sure to cut it into even pieces so it cooks uniformly. Overcooking can make it mushy, so keep it on the heat just until it's tender but still has a bit of crunch.

Time-Saving Tips for This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all your ingredients before you start cooking to save time and make the process smoother.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly and efficiently chop the vegetables and herbs for the recipe.

Multi-task: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the zucchini and sauce to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the pasta and sauce together, reducing the number of dishes to clean up later.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to streamline the cooking process and minimize time spent searching for utensils and ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Zucchini Pasta with Pine Nuts Recipe

zucchini - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be spiralized or sliced into thin strips to mimic the texture and appearance of zucchini pasta, and it has a slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish well.
pine nuts - Substitute with sliced almonds: Sliced almonds can provide a similar nutty crunch and flavor to the dish, and they are a more budget-friendly alternative to pine nuts.

Presenting Zucchini Pasta With Pine Nuts

Elevate the pasta: Gently twirl the spaghetti into a neat nest using tongs for a refined and elegant presentation.
Garnish with pine nuts: Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the pasta in an artful and deliberate manner to add a touch of sophistication and texture.
Drizzle with olive oil: Use a steady hand to drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil in a circular motion around the edge of the plate for a polished finish.
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese: Grate fresh parmesan cheese over the dish using a fine grater, ensuring an even distribution and a visually appealing touch.
Add a pop of color with tomato: Place a small, vibrant slice of ripe roma tomato on top of the pasta to provide a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few delicate, fresh herb leaves over the pasta for a final touch of visual appeal and a hint of aromatic flavor.

Essential Tools for Making Zucchini Pasta

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and sautéing ingredients.
Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, stewing, or blanching ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen tool with holes used for draining liquids from food items.
Skimmer: A utensil with a perforated surface used for skimming foam or impurities from the surface of liquids.
Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating or shredding ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices.
Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used for measuring small amounts of liquid or dry ingredients.
Measuring cup: A container used for measuring liquid or dry ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A utensil made of wood, used for stirring, mixing, and serving food.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients.
Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating or shredding ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or spices.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate ingredients.
Zester: A tool used for removing the zest from citrus fruits.
Pasta pot: A specialized pot with a strainer insert for cooking and draining pasta.
Cheese grater: A tool specifically designed for grating cheese into fine pieces.
Ladle: A long-handled utensil with a cup-shaped bowl used for serving soups, stews, and sauces.
Microplane: A kitchen tool used for grating, zesting, and shredding ingredients such as cheese, chocolate, and citrus fruits.

Storing and Freezing Zucchini Pasta With Pine Nuts

To store leftover zucchini pasta in the refrigerator, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the zucchini pasta for later consumption, it's best to freeze the pasta and zucchini mixture separately from the pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and tomato toppings.
To freeze the pasta and zucchini mixture:
- Allow it to cool completely to room temperature.
- Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Place it in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2-3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen zucchini pasta:
- Remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat the thawed pasta in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and any excess liquid has evaporated.
- Top the reheated pasta with freshly toasted pine nuts, grated parmesan cheese, and diced tomato before serving.
It's not recommended to freeze the pine nuts, parmesan cheese, or tomato toppings, as their texture and flavor may be compromised after thawing. For the best results, add these toppings fresh when serving the reheated zucchini pasta.

How To Reheat Leftover Zucchini Pasta With Pine Nuts

Reheat the zucchini pasta in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the pasta and the crispness of the zucchini.
For a quick and easy reheating option, microwave the zucchini pasta in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the pasta to become mushy.
If you prefer a crispy texture, reheat the zucchini pasta in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the pasta from drying out.
For a flavorful twist, sauté some additional garlic and onion in a pan with a little olive oil before adding the leftover zucchini pasta. This will refresh the flavors and add a new dimension to the dish.
If the pasta seems dry after reheating, add a splash of milk or pasta water to help loosen it up and create a creamier texture.
Sprinkle some fresh parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and chopped tomato on top of the reheated zucchini pasta to add a burst of flavor and texture.
For a cold pasta salad option, rinse the leftover zucchini pasta under cold water and toss with a light lemon vinaigrette, fresh herbs, and your choice of vegetables for a refreshing and tasty meal.

Interesting Fact About Zucchini Pasta With Pine Nuts

Zucchini pasta with pine nuts is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a satisfying meal.

Is Making Zucchini Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this zucchini pasta with pine nuts recipe is quite high. Zucchini and pasta are affordable, and the addition of pine nuts and parmesan cheese adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15. This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and economical choice for a family meal. I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and quality.

Is This Zucchini Pasta Dish Healthy?

This zucchini pasta with pine nuts recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it incorporates nutritious ingredients like zucchini, garlic, onion, and tomato, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zucchini is particularly low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. The use of whole grain spaghetti would further increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy.

However, the recipe also includes some less healthy components. The olive oil and pine nuts, while offering healthy fats, can also contribute to a higher calorie count. The Parmesan cheese adds saturated fat and sodium to the dish. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant source of lean protein, which is important for maintaining muscle mass and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

To make this recipe healthier, you could:

Use a whole grain or legume-based pasta to increase fiber and protein content
Reduce the amount of olive oil used in sautéing the vegetables
Incorporate a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp
Add more vegetables to the dish, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to increase nutrient density
Use a low-fat milk alternative, such as almond or skim milk, to reduce the overall fat content
Opt for a reduced-fat Parmesan cheese or use it more sparingly
Include fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add flavor without additional calories

By making these adjustments, you can transform this zucchini pasta recipe into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your taste buds.

Editor's Opinion on This Zucchini Pasta Dish

The zucchini pasta with pine nuts recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of zucchini with the nuttiness of pine nuts. The use of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing, while the Italian seasoning brings a depth of flavor. The addition of milk and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy and rich sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. The toasted pine nuts provide a satisfying crunch, and the fresh tomato adds a burst of color and freshness. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, making it a delightful and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Zucchini Pasta with Pine Nuts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty bread brushed with garlic-infused butter and toasted to perfection

Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to smoky perfection and seasoned with sea salt and cracked black pepper

Similar Recipes to Try

Grilled Vegetable Salad: Grill a variety of vegetables and toss them with a homemade vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy salad option.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken: Marinate chicken in a balsamic glaze and then grill or bake for a flavorful and juicy main dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, coconut milk, and chia seeds to create a delicious and nutritious dessert or snack option.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash and blend it with warm spices and broth for a comforting and creamy soup perfect for any season.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers: Marinate shrimp in a zesty lemon garlic mixture and then skewer and grill for a quick and flavorful seafood dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Zucchini Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your taste buds with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Indulge in the classic Italian flavors of bruschetta, featuring toasted bread topped with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. A refreshing and satisfying starter for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layer fresh berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and light dessert. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, along with the different textures, creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Zucchini Pasta with Pine Nuts Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The use of fresh ingredients such as zucchini and tomato guarantees a wholesome dish. The addition of pine nuts brings a delightful crunch, while the incorporation of Italian seasoning and parmesan cheese promises an authentic taste. The method of toasting the pine nuts enhances their aroma and flavor, adding depth to the dish. The inclusion of lemon juice provides a refreshing zing, elevating the overall taste. Trust in this recipe for a delightful and flavorful dining experience.

Want to share your experiences making zucchini pasta or discuss other healthy pasta alternatives? Join the conversation in the Healthy Eating forum and let us know your thoughts on this Zucchini Pasta with Pine Nuts recipe!

FAQ:

How long does it take to make zucchini pasta with pine nuts?

It takes approximately 30 minutes to make zucchini pasta with pine nuts from start to finish.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta such as fettuccine, linguine, or even spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the milk and parmesan cheese with dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the zucchini and pine nuts in advance and cook the pasta just before serving to save time.

What can I serve as a side dish with this zucchini pasta?

A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread would complement this zucchini pasta dish perfectly.