Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

This refreshing, citrusy spaghetti recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. Full of light, vibrant flavors and a variety of textures, it's perfect for those hot summer days when you want something filling yet refreshing. With the perfect blend of summer squash, zucchini, pine nuts, and a hint of lemon, you'll be transporting your taste buds to the Italian coastline with each bite.

Photos of Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are mostly common items that can be found in any well-stocked pantry or fridge. However, you might need to make a trip to the supermarket for the summer squash and zucchini, which are seasonal vegetables. Pine nuts, which add a unique flavor and crunch, may not be a common staple and can be found in the nuts or baking aisle. Lastly, the recipe calls for white spaghetti, which is a specific type of pasta that's slightly thicker than regular spaghetti.

Ingredients for Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

White spaghetti: A type of pasta that's slightly thicker than regular spaghetti. It pairs well with light, summery sauces.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and add a rich, smooth flavor to the dish.

Garlic: Adds a savory depth of flavor.

Zucchini and summer squash: Seasonal vegetables that bring a light, refreshing taste and texture.

Pine nuts: Adds a unique flavor and crunch to the dish.

Parmesan cheese: Brings a creamy, savory element that balances out the acidity of the lemon.

Breadcrumbs: Adds a slight crunch and helps to thicken the sauce.

Lemon juice: Adds a bright, citrusy accent that lifts up the other flavors.

One reader, Debee Mashburn says:

This summer squash lemon spaghetti recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so fresh and vibrant, and the combination of zucchini, squash, and lemon creates a delightful, light dish. The pine nuts add a lovely crunch, and the parmesan cheese ties everything together perfectly. It's a must-try for any summer gathering!

Debee Mashburn

Techniques for Preparing Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

How to prepare spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions, and drain when done.

How to chop zucchini and summer squash: Cut the zucchini and summer squash into coins, then lengthwise and width-wise through the coins to create small pieces.

How to toast pine nuts: Place the pine nuts in a pan over medium heat without any oil, and stir until lightly brown. Be careful as the nuts can burn easily.

How to combine olive oil and garlic: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the olive oil and garlic, and stir until fragrant.

How to cook zucchini and summer squash: Add the chopped squash and zucchini to the olive oil mixture and stir until tender.

How to season the dish: Season the dish generously or to taste with salt and pepper, and stir until well combined.

How to enjoy the dish: Serve and enjoy the summer squash lemon spaghetti immediately.

How To Make Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

Packed with bright and fresh flavors, this tasty lemon spaghetti dish is made with zucchini, summer squash, and pasta tossed with lemon juice, and parmesan.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

white spaghetti,(1 package)
½cupolive oil
½tspgarlic,minced
5cupszucchini and summer squash,assorted
⅓cuppine nuts,optional
⅔cupparmesan cheese,freshly grated
⅔cupbreadcrumbs,plain
3tbsplemon juice,freshly squeezed
salt and pepper

Instructions

Prepare the spaghetti according to the package directions, and cook all the way through.
Drain when the noodles are done cooking, and return the noodles to the pot.
Chop up the zucchini and summer squash (measure out 5 cups after cutting) by cutting the squashes into coins and then lengthwise and width-wise through the coins.
Place the pine nuts in the pan without any oil over medium heat.
Lightly toast by stirring until lightly brown. The nuts will burn easily, so watch carefully.
Combine the olive oil and garlic in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
Stir until fragrant.
Add the chopped squash and zucchini to the olive oil mixture.
Stir until tender.
Add in the parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
Season generously or to taste with salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Add the zucchini and squash mixture to the drained spaghetti.
Add in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste, and the previously toasted pine nuts.
Stir until combined.
Enjoy immediately.

Recipe Notes

Tongs work best for tossing the ingredients together.

Nutrition

Calories: 358.38kcal
Fat: 28.58g
Saturated Fat: 5.85g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.94g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.98g
Carbohydrates: 17.62g
Fiber: 3.11g
Sugar: 6.00g
Protein: 11.05g
Cholesterol: 11.24mg
Sodium: 605.00mg
Calcium: 254.13mg
Potassium: 619.28mg
Iron: 2.03mg
Vitamin A: 54.24µg
Vitamin C: 37.59mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

When toasting pine nuts, it's important to keep a close eye on them as they can easily burn due to their high oil content. Stir them frequently for even toasting and remove them from the heat as soon as they start to turn golden brown. This will give them a rich, nutty flavor that complements the summer squash and zucchini in this dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Opt for a large skillet to cook the spaghetti and the squash mixture together, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Quick toast: Toast the pine nuts in advance and store them in an airtight container for future use to save time during meal prep.

Multitask: While the spaghetti is cooking, prepare the squash mixture to efficiently utilize your time in the kitchen.

Efficient chopping: Use a mandoline slicer to quickly and uniformly slice the zucchini and summer squash, saving time on chopping.

Substitute Ingredients For Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

white spaghetti - Substitute with whole wheat spaghetti: Whole wheat spaghetti is a healthier alternative that adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar flavor profile and a high smoke point, making it suitable for sautéing and dressing the pasta.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique twist to the dish.
zucchini and summer squash - Substitute with asparagus and bell peppers: Asparagus and bell peppers offer a similar crunch and vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal and taste of the dish.
pine nuts - Substitute with almonds: Almonds provide a similar nutty flavor and crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the pasta.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano has a slightly sharper and saltier flavor, complementing the lemony notes in the dish.
breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a lighter, crispier texture to the dish, enhancing its overall mouthfeel.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar offers a tangy acidity that can brighten the flavors of the dish, similar to lemon juice.

Presentation Ideas for Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a variety of textures to the dish. Consider adding a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs on top of the spaghetti to provide a delightful crunch.
Highlight the freshness of the ingredients: Showcase the vibrant colors of the zucchini and summer squash by arranging them artfully on the plate. This will emphasize the use of fresh, seasonal produce.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to draw attention to the main elements of the dish. Allow the spaghetti to be the focal point while using the empty space to create a sense of balance and elegance.
Incorporate a drizzle: Finish the dish with a delicate drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Consider the plate shape and size: Choose a plate that complements the dish. A wide, shallow bowl or a rectangular plate can provide an ideal canvas for showcasing the vibrant colors and textures of the summer squash lemon spaghetti.
Garnish with precision: Pay attention to the placement of garnishes. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts strategically over the dish to ensure each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Essential Tools for Making Spaghetti with Summer Squash and Lemon

White spaghetti: Long, thin pasta made from durum wheat semolina.
Olive oil: A flavorful and versatile oil used for cooking and dressing.
Garlic: A pungent and aromatic bulb used to add flavor to dishes.
Zucchini and summer squash: Fresh, tender vegetables that add a light and delicate flavor to the dish.
Pine nuts: Small, edible seeds harvested from pine cones, often used to add a rich, buttery flavor and texture to dishes.
Parmesan cheese: A hard, aged cheese with a rich and nutty flavor, often used for grating over dishes.
Breadcrumbs: Dried and ground bread used to add texture and absorb flavors in dishes.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed juice from lemons, used to add a bright and tangy flavor to the dish.
Salt and pepper: Common seasonings used to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Storing and Freezing Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

To store leftover summer squash lemon spaghetti, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta to help revive its texture and prevent it from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
If you want to freeze the spaghetti, it's best to do so before adding the zucchini and summer squash mixture. Cook the pasta until it's slightly undercooked (al dente), drain, and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To freeze the zucchini and summer squash mixture separately, cook it according to the recipe instructions, allow it to cool completely, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen spaghetti, thaw both the pasta and the vegetable mixture in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the pasta by boiling it in water for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Warm the vegetable mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Combine the pasta and vegetable mixture, add the lemon juice, pine nuts, and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

Reheat the leftover summer squash lemon spaghetti in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a pat of butter to prevent sticking and add moisture. Stir gently and continuously until the pasta is heated through and the zucchini and summer squash are warm and tender. This method helps preserve the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
For a quick and easy reheating option, place the leftover spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water, olive oil, or vegetable broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the pasta is heated through and the vegetables are warm.
If you prefer a crispy texture, reheat the leftover summer squash lemon spaghetti in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pasta evenly in a baking dish and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil or melted butter. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10-15 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and crispy.
For a flavorful twist, reheat the leftover spaghetti in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and sauté some minced garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant. Add the pasta and vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry until heated through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Interesting Fact About Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

Summer squash lemon spaghetti is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light summer meal.

Is Making Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti at Home Cost-Effective?

This summer squash lemon spaghetti recipe is highly cost-effective for households. The main ingredients, such as zucchini and summer squash, are affordable and readily available. The addition of olive oil and lemon juice enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The pine nuts and parmesan cheese may be slightly more expensive, but their quantities are minimal in the recipe. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4: $12-15.

Is Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti Healthy?

The summer squash lemon spaghetti recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of nutrients. Here's why:

The recipe includes a generous amount of zucchini and summer squash, which are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
Pine nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
Parmesan cheese adds flavor and a good source of protein and calcium.
Lemon juice provides vitamin C and helps brighten the flavors of the dish.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe calls for white spaghetti, which is made from refined flour. Switching to whole wheat or legume-based pasta would increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
The amount of olive oil used (½ cup) is quite high. Reducing the oil to ¼ cup or less would lower the calorie content without sacrificing too much flavor.
The breadcrumbs add extra calories and carbohydrates. Omitting them or using a smaller amount of whole wheat breadcrumbs would be a healthier option.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following suggestions:

Add more vegetables to the recipe, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Include a lean protein source, like grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the meal more balanced and satisfying.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or roasted garlic, to add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of oil or cheese.
Serve the spaghetti with a side salad or a vegetable-based soup to round out the meal and add more nutrients.

Editor's Opinion on This Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti Recipe

This summer squash lemon spaghetti recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The zucchini and summer squash provide a fresh and light element, while the pine nuts add a satisfying crunch. The addition of lemon juice brightens the dish, creating a refreshing and vibrant taste. The use of parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs adds a comforting and savory depth to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to showcase the seasonal produce and create a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Enhance Your Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic, parmesan, and a hint of lemon for a flavorful and healthy side dish.

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad: Juicy grilled peaches paired with peppery arugula, tangy goat cheese, and a balsamic glaze for a refreshing and vibrant salad.

Mango Salsa with Cilantro Lime Rice: Fresh and zesty mango salsa served over fluffy cilantro lime rice for a tropical and colorful accompaniment to the main dish.

Similar Recipes to Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them to perfection for a healthy and delicious side dish or main course.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Top your grilled or baked chicken with a refreshing and flavorful mango salsa for a tropical twist on a classic dish.

Butternut Squash Soup: Simmer butternut squash with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk for a comforting and velvety soup that's perfect for any time of year.

Berry Cobbler: Combine fresh berries with a sweet and buttery topping for a delightful dessert that's best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Sauté succulent shrimp with garlic, lemon, and herbs, then toss with al dente pasta for a quick and satisfying seafood pasta dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful and refreshing dessert option. Each spoonful is bursting with fruity flavors and satisfying textures.

Why trust this Summer Squash Lemon Spaghetti Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh zucchini and summer squash, enhanced with the zesty flavor of lemon juice and the richness of parmesan cheese. The use of olive oil and garlic infuses the dish with a delightful aroma and depth of flavor. The addition of pine nuts provides a satisfying crunch, while the breadcrumbs contribute a comforting texture. With a harmonious blend of ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying dining experience.

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FAQ:

What type of pasta can I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of pasta for this recipe, such as white spaghetti, whole wheat spaghetti, or even gluten-free spaghetti.

Can I substitute the pine nuts with another type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

How can I adjust the flavor of the dish to my preference?

You can adjust the flavor by adding more or less garlic, lemon juice, or parmesan cheese according to your taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the dish when you're ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This recipe contains parmesan cheese, but you can easily make it vegan by using a dairy-free parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast.