Seasonal Vegetable Pasta with Lemon Zest

A vibrant pasta dish featuring seasonal vegetables and bright lemon notes, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 20 minutes. Cook: 25 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 3 cloves, minced garlic
• 1 cup, thinly sliced carrots
• 1 cup, sliced zucchini
• 1, thinly sliced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup, chopped basil
• 1, zested and juiced lemon
• 1/4 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent, then add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add 1 cup sliced carrots, 1 cup sliced zucchini, and 1 sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped basil, 1 lemon zested and juiced, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Add the drained spaghetti and 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, then toss for 2 minutes until sauce coats pasta evenly.
5. Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately with extra Parmesan.