Zucchini Sauce With Garlic
Creamy zucchini sauce with garlic and basil, perfect for a light pasta dish. Fresh and flavorful, ideal for summer dinners or a quick vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the zucchini lengthwise into quarters, then cut in half.
- Bring 1 inch of water with bay leaves to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the zucchini to the boiling water and cook for 3 minutes, covered.
- Remove the bay leaves and discard.
- Add remaining ingredients (pignoli nuts, garlic, basil, olive oil) and put everything in a blender.
- Blend well until smooth.
- Serve over pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or a tablespoon of nutritional yeast when blending. If you don't have pignoli nuts, walnuts or cashews can work as substitutes. Fresh garlic gives a more robust flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. This sauce is versatile and can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This zucchini sauce is perfect over pasta, but also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a lighter meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad, like Green Beans And Onion Salad, for a complete dinner. It also makes a delicious dip for crusty bread or vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its smooth texture. You may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up if it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Sauce With Garlic contains roughly 747 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this zucchini sauce for later use?
Yes, this zucchini sauce can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This zucchini sauce is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegan recipes. Just ensure that any pasta or sides you serve with it are also vegan-friendly if you're catering to a vegan diet.
What can I serve with zucchini sauce besides pasta?
In addition to pasta, this sauce is a great complement to grilled vegetables, quinoa, or even as a spread on sandwiches. It also pairs well with Mediterranean recipes, adding a fresh element to dishes like stuffed peppers or roasted eggplant.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).