Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti is a quick and healthy vegetarian pasta dish featuring spiralized zucchini and spaghetti tossed in a luscious, creamy sauce made from garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of cream cheese. This dish is not only flavorful but also an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With its rich, creamy texture and delightful taste, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti
This Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings. Here are a few reasons to love this dish:
- It’s a healthy creamy zucchini spaghetti recipe that’s low in calories.
- Perfect for those looking for low-carb creamy zucchini noodles.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
- Can be made vegan by substituting cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- This dish is packed with nutrients from zucchini and whole-wheat pasta.
- Deliciously versatile; you can add your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- This zucchini spaghetti with garlic cream sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Italian cuisine while staying healthy (Note: Italian cuisine).
Ingredients for Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti
Gather these items:
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cups spiralized zucchini (about 2 medium zucchini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini and garlic; cook, stirring, until zucchini is just tender, about 3 minutes.
- Step 3: Add broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in cream cheese and cook, stirring, until melted and smooth.
- Step 4: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Step 5: Stir in Parmesan, pepper, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
- Step 6: Serve topped with fresh basil, if desired.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti
Keep these in mind:
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine when cooking the zucchini.
- Make sure not to overcook the zucchini to keep its texture.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti
This creamy zucchini pasta dish can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair it with:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- A fresh garden salad for a light meal.
- Garlic bread for a classic Italian experience.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess (Note: Meal prep friendly).
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti
What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti?
To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, ensure that the cream cheese is fully melted and combined with the broth. This creates a smooth texture that beautifully coats the zucchini noodles with creamy sauce.
Can I make Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Reheat gently before adding the freshly cooked spaghetti and zucchini to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti?
Avoid overcooking the zucchini; it should be tender but not mushy. Also, be mindful of the seasoning and taste as you go to ensure the sauce is just right.
Variations of Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations:
- Add cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
- Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative for a creamy vegan zucchini spaghetti.
- Incorporate spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Use different types of cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.
Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti: 7 Irresistibly Delicious Ways
Creamy Zucchini Spaghetti is a quick and healthy vegetarian pasta dish featuring spiralized zucchini and spaghetti tossed in a luscious, creamy sauce made from garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cups spiralized zucchini (about 2 medium zucchini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini and garlic; cook, stirring, until zucchini is just tender, about 3 minutes.
- Add broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in cream cheese and cook, stirring, until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan, pepper, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
- Serve topped with fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 338
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg











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