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Acini Di Pepe With Lemon Butter And Zucchini Recipe

A vibrant and zesty pasta dish ready in under 15 minutes! This simple recipe from "365 Ways to Cook Pasta" combines tender acini di pepe with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and summer zucchini. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch.

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 11 mins
Calories 212.3 kcal
Protein 11g
Rating 4.0 (2 Reviews)
Acini Di Pepe With Lemon Butter And Zucchini

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Acini Di Pepe With Lemon Butter And Zucchini

  • Acini Di Pepe Pasta
  • Lemon Juice
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • Fresh Lemon Zest
  • 2 medium Zucchini, diced

How to Make Acini Di Pepe With Lemon Butter And Zucchini

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of acini di pepe and cook according to package directions, until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
  2. While the pasta cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  3. Add 2 medium zucchini, diced, to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
  4. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the zucchini.
  5. Stir in 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, the zest of 1 lemon, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional). Toss to combine.
  6. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

1 g

Sugar

5g

Fat

18g

Carbs

10g

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15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion Healthy 5 Ingredients Or Less Side Dishes Pasta Easy European Beginner Cook Fall Kid Friendly Summer Vegan Vegetarian Dietary Low Sodium Seasonal Low In Something Pasta Rice And Grains Presentation Served Hot 3 Steps Or Less