Name: Zucchini Mushroom Pasta with Pesto and Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 7 oz. Tagliatelle Pasta; 1 tbsp. Salt (for boiling water); 2 medium Zucchini, sliced; 1 cup Baby Bella Mushrooms, sliced; 1/2 Onion, sliced; 2 Garlic Cloves, minced; 4 tbsp. Pesto; 1/4 cup Parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp. Olive Oil; 1 tsp. Red Pepper Flakes; 1 tsp. Black Pepper; Parmesan Cheese (to taste)

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Introduction

This zucchini mushroom pasta is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Combining tender vegetables with a savory pesto sauce, it delivers a comforting and fresh meal in just minutes.

The image shows a plate of pasta with three main visible layers. The bottom layer is wide, flat, light yellow noodles, slightly glossy as if lightly coated with oil or butter, twisted and laid unevenly. On top of the pasta are sliced mushrooms, dark brown with a slightly shiny surface, and green zucchini pieces that are semi-circular and look lightly cooked with some charring. Scattered around are tiny red chili flakes and bits of herbs adding a speckled texture across the dish. A sprig of fresh green parsley lies on the left side, adding a fresh contrast. This food is served on a large round speckled beige ceramic plate with a smooth texture and a thin brown rim, all set against a white marbled background with a soft gray napkin in the upper part of the image and a white bowl partly visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

7 oz. tagliatelle pasta
2 medium zucchini, sliced
1 cup baby bella mushrooms, sliced
1/2 onion, sliced
4 tbsp. pesto
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. red pepper flakes
1 tbsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper
Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
2 garlic cloves

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water, then cook the tagliatelle pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
Step 2: When the pasta is halfway done, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Sauté the garlic, onions, mushrooms, and zucchini in the oil, stirring occasionally for about three minutes.
Step 3: Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Add the pesto and chopped parsley, then stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Use tongs to transfer the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated.
Step 5: Serve the pasta warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

If the pasta feels dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce.
Spaghetti or linguine can be used instead of tagliatelle for a similar taste and texture.
For extra protein, toss in grilled chicken or sautéed tofu.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

How to Serve

A bowl holds a serving of pasta with three visible layers of ingredients. The base layer is light cream-colored flat noodles twisted and intertwined with a slightly shiny, soft texture. Spread throughout the noodles are dark brown sautéed mushrooms that look tender with a slight gloss. Slices of cooked green zucchini with a soft texture and some char marks are mixed evenly with the pasta and mushrooms. Small bits of herbs and red pepper flakes are scattered lightly across the dish, adding tiny dots of green and red color. A sprig of fresh green parsley rests on the side for garnish. A silver fork leans on the side of the bowl. The bowl itself is white with a slightly rough, speckled texture and is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes, cremini, shiitake, or white button mushrooms work well as substitutes for baby bella mushrooms in this recipe.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarian diets?

Absolutely. This pasta is vegetarian-friendly, especially when you skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegetarian cheese alternative.