Creamy Zucchini Sauce – Clara quick dinners

Creamy Zucchini Sauce is a rich, velvety, and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. Made with fresh zucchini, garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese, this sauce is a delicious way to incorporate more veggies into your meals while keeping things indulgent and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light Yet Creamy – A perfect balance of freshness and richness.
• Great Way to Use Zucchini – A delicious option for garden-fresh or leftover zucchini.
• Versatile – Pairs well with pasta, grilled meats, or as a dip.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes!
• Customizable – Make it dairy-free, add protein, or spice it up!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh zucchini (grated or chopped)
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the Garlic and Zucchini – Heat olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the grated or chopped zucchini and cook until soft.
2. Blend for a Smooth Sauce (Optional) – For a silky texture, blend the cooked zucchini mixture until smooth.
3. Add Cream and Cheese – Return the blended or mashed zucchini to the pan. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce thickens.
4. Season to Taste – Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Serve – Toss with pasta, drizzle over chicken, or use as a dip for roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
• Cheesy Twist – Add mozzarella or cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.
• Spicy Kick – Mix in cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Protein Additions – Stir in shredded chicken, shrimp, or ground turkey.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over zoodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer – Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini?

Yes, but thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.

What pasta pairs best with this sauce?

Linguine, fettuccine, or penne work best.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer longer or add extra parmesan cheese.

Can I make this sauce vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Try lemon zest, nutmeg, or roasted garlic for a flavor boost.

Does the sauce taste like zucchini?

It has a mild, creamy flavor with a hint of zucchini freshness.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Add a little flour to thicken it.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming watery?

Sauté zucchini until most moisture evaporates before blending.

Can I use this sauce for pizza?

Yes! It makes a great creamy base for white pizzas.

What other cheeses work in this sauce?

Ricotta, goat cheese, or Gruyère add delicious variations.

Conclusion

Creamy Zucchini Sauce is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile sauce that can transform any meal. Whether tossed with pasta, drizzled over grilled meats, or used as a dip, this sauce is an easy way to enjoy zucchini in a creamy, delicious way. Try it today and discover a new favorite recipe!

Print