Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 yellow onion or shallot, finely chopped
- 2 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, button, or baby bella), sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon zest or 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion or shallot until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms, season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and cook until golden and moisture has evaporated.
- Stir in zucchini and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still vibrant.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cream or half-and-half if using. Let it thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Stir in grated cheese, lemon zest or juice, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately, warm and creamy.
Notes
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a protein boost.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and nutritional yeast instead of cheese and cream.
- Include cherry tomatoes for added sweetness and color.
- Switch herbs—try basil or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
- Top with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
