Spaghetti with zucchini and carrots

Spaghetti with Zucchini and Carrots is a light, fresh, and healthy pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal while still enjoying the satisfying comfort of pasta. The zucchini and carrots are sautéed to bring out their natural sweetness, and the dish is tossed with spaghetti for a flavorful, veggie-packed meal. With a hint of garlic and a dash of Parmesan, this pasta is simple yet delicious.

Let’s dive into this easy, nutritious recipe!

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Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti (whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used)
• Salt, for seasoning the pasta water

For the Zucchini and Carrot Sauce:

• 2 medium zucchini, julienned or thinly sliced into half-moons
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and julienned (or grated if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil 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 (typically around 9-11 minutes).
2. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help bind the sauce and pasta together. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini and Carrots

1. Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the zucchini and carrots to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape and the carrots are cooked through. If you prefer your vegetables softer, cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Season: Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little extra brightness, you can add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice at this point.

Step 3: Combine the Spaghetti and Vegetables

1. Add the Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sautéed zucchini and carrots. Toss everything together to combine. If the mixture looks dry, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
2. Add Cheese and Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss to coat the pasta and vegetables evenly. The cheese will melt and create a creamy, flavorful coating. Garnish with chopped fresh basil, parsley, or chives for an added burst of flavor and color.

Step 4: Serve

• Divide the pasta onto serving plates and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and herbs as desired.

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Tips and Variations:

• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a poached egg on top of the pasta. Tofu or chickpeas would also be a great plant-based protein option.
• Make It Spicy: If you love spice, increase the red pepper flakes, or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the vegetables while sautéing.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Vegan Version: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make this dish vegan. Nutritional yeast can also be used to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a lower-carb version, replace the spaghetti with zucchini noodles (zoodles) made with a spiralizer. Sauté them lightly with the garlic and red pepper flakes for a fresh alternative.

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Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti with Zucchini and Carrots:

This Spaghetti with Zucchini and Carrots is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. It’s a light and fresh dish that’s full of flavor and texture, with tender vegetables, savory garlic, and a touch of cheese to bring everything together. The zucchini and carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish, while the pasta adds heartiness.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy option that still feels indulgent, this pasta is a fantastic choice. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion!

Enjoy this delicious, veggie-packed pasta with zucchini and carrots—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!