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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as pasta. The creamy, dreamy allure of Alfredo sauce combined with the satisfying bite of penne pasta is a classic that has graced dinner tables for generations. However, traditional Alfredo can often be rich and heavy, making it less appealing for those seeking a lighter yet equally delicious option. Enter the Creamy Zucchini Alfredo Penne—a dish that not only satisfies your pasta cravings but also incorporates nutritious vegetables, making it a fantastic choice for health-conscious eaters and families alike.

Creamy Zucchini Alfredo Penne

Discover the delightful Creamy Zucchini Alfredo Penne, a healthier twist on traditional Alfredo pasta! Combining creamy sauce and vibrant zucchini, this dish offers a satisfying experience without the guilt. Enjoy the rich flavors from garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil, all while benefiting from the nutritional goodness of zucchini. Perfect for family meals or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Dive in and enjoy creamy perfection today!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

2 medium zucchinis, grated

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving approximately 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.

    Sauté the Zucchini: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the grated zucchini. Sauté the zucchini for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes tender and most of its moisture has evaporated. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, just until the garlic is fragrant.

      Prepare the Sauce: Lower the heat slightly, then pour the heavy cream into the skillet over the sautéed zucchini. Stir the mixture thoroughly, then gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

        Season the Sauce: Incorporate the salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg into the sauce. Stir well and taste the sauce; adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Carefully add the cooked penne to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the creamy zucchini sauce until it's well coated. If you find the sauce too thick, gradually add in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

            Serve: Plate the creamy zucchini Alfredo penne onto individual serving dishes. Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and temperature!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings