Chilli, zucchini and lemon pasta

Chilli, zucchini and lemon pasta is a quick and vibrant dish featuring mild chili heat, zesty lemon, and fresh zucchini. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines sautéed vegetables with al dente pasta for a refreshing meal.

27 Dec 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp chili powder
2 zucchini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 bunch fresh parsley

Chilli, zucchini and lemon pasta is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the mild heat of chili with the zesty tang of lemon and the fresh taste of zucchini. It’s a quick and simple meal, perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Set pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and chili powder to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the Zucchini:
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and toss to coat in the spiced oil mixture.
- Cook the zucchini until tender, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the zucchini mixture.
- Pour in the lemon juice and toss everything together to combine.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

5. Season and Garnish:
- Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the chopped parsley, reserving a little for garnish.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the Chilli, Zucchini, and Lemon Pasta to serving plates.
- Garnish with the remaining parsley.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious and vibrant pasta dish!

This chilli, zucchini and lemon pasta is a delightful and healthy option for any meal. The blend of flavors from the chili, lemon, and fresh parsley makes for a unique and satisfying dish. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Chilli, zucchini and lemon pasta FAQ:

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta can be used; however, short shapes like penne or fusilli work particularly well for holding onto the sauce. Spaghetti or linguine can also be good choices for a lighter dish.

How should I store leftovers from the Chilli, Zucchini, and Lemon Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil in a pan over low heat to prevent sticking.

Can I substitute zucchini with another vegetable?

Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, or even spinach. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose.

What can I use instead of lemon juice if I don't have any?

If you don't have lemon juice, you can substitute with lime juice or a splash of vinegar for acidity, keeping in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the zucchini is properly cooked?

The zucchini is properly cooked when it is tender but still has a slight bite, usually after about 5-7 minutes of sautéing. Avoid overcooking, as it can become mushy.

Tips:

- Choose the right pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta, whether it’s spaghetti, penne, or another variety. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also be great alternatives.

- Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to cook the pasta to al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the zucchini and other ingredients. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.

- Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the zucchini ahead of time to make the cooking process smoother.

- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh parsley and fresh lemon juice will impart the best flavors to the dish. Avoid using dried parsley or bottled lemon juice if possible.

- Control the heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, use less chili powder or opt for a mild chili variety.

- Add protein: Consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this dish more filling. Cook and season your protein separately, then mix it in during the final steps.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 370kcal
Protein 14g
Carbohydrates 77g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 9g
Fat 9g

Chilli, zucchini and lemon pasta