The delicate ribbons of green and yellow zucchini give this pasta dish a beautiful pop of color, while the garlic and fresh herbs infuse it with robust, aromatic flavor. Using whole-wheat fettuccine keeps the meal hearty and satisfying, yet still light enough for a nourishing dinner.
Perfect for warm evenings or any time you’re craving something fresh, this Zucchini Ribbon Pasta brings Italian-inspired comfort without weighing you down. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this dish is ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned kitchen pros.
Full Recipe:
3/4 pound whole-wheat fettuccini
2 medium green zucchini (about 1 pound)
2 medium yellow zucchini (about 1 pound)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (lightly packed), plus 2 tablespoons for garnish
1/3 cup finely minced parsley leaves, plus extra for garnish
1 cup thinly sliced basil leaves, plus more for garnish
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Salt to taste
Directions:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, cook the whole-wheat fettuccine until just al dente, 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
Trim the ends from all zucchinis. Slice each lengthwise in half, then carefully shave into thin ribbons using a mandoline or a very sharp knife. Cut the long ribbons in half lengthwise for easier bites.
In the same pasta pot, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant and translucent, not browned.
Add zucchini ribbons and 1/4 cup chicken broth. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 3 minutes, stirring gently, until the zucchini is just tender but still bright and slightly firm.
Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Pour in the remaining 3/4 cup of chicken broth and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and absorb into the pasta.
Stir in 1/4 cup Parmesan, parsley, basil, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Toss until well combined.
Taste and season with salt as needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with remaining Parmesan, parsley, and basil.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: Approx. 360 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
A Healthy Twist on a Classic: Zucchini Ribbon Pasta
Zucchini Ribbon Pasta is the perfect embodiment of how simple, seasonal ingredients can transform into a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful meal. Created by Ellie Krieger, a registered dietitian and celebrated Food Network host, this dish brings the best of both worlds: the comforting texture of pasta and the lightness of fresh vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a showstopper for your next garden party, this pasta recipe delivers on taste, nutrition, and visual appeal.
Why Zucchini Ribbons?
Zucchini ribbons are not just a fun and creative way to use up seasonal squash — they also offer a delightful textural contrast to traditional pasta. Unlike spiralized noodles (zoodles), which can sometimes feel limp or overly watery, zucchini ribbons mimic the shape and feel of tagliatelle or fettuccine. When sliced thin and sautéed just briefly, they retain a gentle bite, making them a perfect complement to al dente whole-wheat pasta.
Moreover, combining yellow and green zucchini adds a splash of color and elevates the aesthetic of the dish. This visual appeal is ideal if you’re cooking for guests or sharing your meal on social media.
The Role of Whole-Wheat Pasta
Choosing whole-wheat fettuccine over traditional white pasta brings several nutritional benefits. Whole-wheat pasta is higher in fiber, which helps with digestion, promotes fullness, and may aid in blood sugar control. It also contains more B vitamins and minerals like magnesium and iron, which are often stripped away in refined pasta products.
Flavor-wise, whole-wheat pasta has a slightly nutty, earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs in this recipe. The hearty texture also provides a satisfying base for the tender zucchini ribbons, creating a balanced bite every time.
Layered Flavors Without Heavy Sauces
One of the standout features of this pasta dish is how it achieves depth of flavor without relying on heavy cream-based sauces or excess cheese. Instead, it builds flavor in layers: from the sautéed garlic in olive oil, to the brightness of fresh basil and parsley, and finally a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. The minimal yet intentional use of chicken broth helps to create a light sauce that coats the pasta without overpowering the vegetables.
Parmesan cheese, used sparingly, adds a touch of umami and saltiness that enhances the natural flavors without making the dish feel indulgent. This approach to seasoning makes the recipe both heart-healthy and diabetic-friendly, perfect for anyone trying to eat clean without compromising on taste.
The Importance of Fresh Herbs
This recipe wouldn’t be the same without the generous addition of fresh basil and parsley. These herbs bring brightness, aroma, and complexity, turning an otherwise simple dish into something that feels gourmet. Basil provides a slightly sweet, peppery note that pairs especially well with zucchini, while parsley adds a fresh, grassy finish.
Fresh herbs also have surprising nutritional value. Basil is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and essential oils, which may support immune health and reduce inflammation. Parsley, on the other hand, is high in vitamin K, crucial for bone health and blood clotting.
Perfect for Special Diets
One of the most attractive features of Zucchini Ribbon Pasta is its adaptability. The base recipe is already health-conscious, featuring whole grains, healthy fats, and loads of vegetables. But it can be tweaked even further to meet various dietary needs:
Vegetarian-Friendly: Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Vegan Option: Omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Gluten-Free: Swap out the whole-wheat pasta for a gluten-free variety like chickpea or brown rice pasta.
Low-Sodium: Choose a no-salt-added broth and go easy on the cheese.
Low-Carb: Reduce the pasta portion and add more zucchini ribbons.
This flexibility makes it easy to serve a crowd with different dietary restrictions or preferences, while still sticking to a single base recipe.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Ribbons
To master this dish, technique matters. The key is in how the zucchini is sliced. Using a mandoline ensures uniform thickness — about 1/8-inch is ideal. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp chef’s knife can do the trick, but take your time and aim for consistency.
Don’t overcook the zucchini. You want it tender but not mushy. A quick 2-3 minute sauté is all it takes to bring out its flavor while preserving its structure and color.
Another insider tip is to prep the zucchini ribbons ahead of time and store them in a salad spinner. A sprinkle of salt and a few spins help remove excess moisture, which keeps your final dish from becoming watery.
Pairing Ideas
Zucchini Ribbon Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to make it part of a larger spread, here are a few delicious pairings:
Protein: Grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or salmon are excellent protein-rich add-ons.
Wine: A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the herbal and citrusy notes of the dish.
Side Dish: Serve with a side of arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a roasted tomato bruschetta.
Bread: A slice of crusty sourdough or whole-grain garlic bread rounds out the meal beautifully.
Storage and Leftovers
This dish tastes best when served fresh, but leftovers can certainly be enjoyed the next day. Let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days.
When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the pasta and maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving for too long as the zucchini can become overly soft. A quick sauté on the stovetop is ideal.
Creative Variations
Once you’ve mastered the original, you can have fun experimenting with your own takes on this dish. Some ideas include:
Adding cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and sweetness.
Mixing in sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for an earthy twist.
Swapping the herbs: try dill and mint for a Mediterranean feel.
Stirring in a spoonful of ricotta or goat cheese for creaminess.
Topping with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
These additions can be made without compromising the health-conscious roots of the original recipe.
Conclusion: A Recipe That Delivers on Every Level
Zucchini Ribbon Pasta is more than just a trendy twist on traditional fettuccine — it’s a celebration of fresh, whole ingredients working together in harmony. From its bright, vibrant visuals to its complex flavor profile and impressive nutritional benefits, this dish truly checks all the boxes.
Whether you’re a busy parent trying to feed your family nutritious meals, a foodie looking to impress guests with minimal effort, or simply someone exploring healthier pasta alternatives, this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation. Light yet satisfying, rustic yet elegant, this dish proves that healthy food doesn’t have to be bland — it can be beautiful, bold, and utterly delicious.