Go Back
+ servings
Lemon Zucchini Rigatoni

Lemon Zucchini Rigatoni: A Zesty Twist on Comfort Food

This Lemon Zucchini Rigatoni is a quick, flavorful vegetarian dish that brightens up your weeknight dinners with fresh ingredients and zesty lemon.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Rigatoni Pasta High-quality, bronze-cut varieties are best.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 medium Zucchini Pick firm, vibrant zucchinis.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh for best flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Lemon Juice Use freshly squeezed juice.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Good quality enhances flavor.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for best results.
  • to taste Salt Adjust according to preference.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust according to preference.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add rigatoni pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Incorporate the sliced zucchini, cooking for about 5 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
  4. Add the drained rigatoni directly to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in fresh lemon juice, stirring for 1-2 minutes until well combined.
  5. Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the rigatoni mixture. Toss gently to melt the cheese.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well before serving.
  7. Transfer the Lemon Zucchini Rigatoni onto serving plates, garnishing with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use a large pot with plenty of water to prevent sticking. Always reserve pasta water for a creamy sauce. Customize with your favorite proteins if desired.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!