One Tray Creamy Zucchini Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort, freshness, and a touch of elegance all in one pot, the One Tray Creamy Zucchini Pasta is an absolute winner. Imagine tender roasted zucchini and red onion mingling with luscious vegan cream cheese and Parmesan, all tossed generously with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe not only makes cleanup a breeze but delivers layers of flavor that feel like a warm hug on a plate — simple, satisfying, and irresistibly creamy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this dish right means choosing ingredients that each play a key role, from the mellow sweetness of roasted veggies to the rich, silky sauce. Every element is straightforward yet essential, ensuring your One Tray Creamy Zucchini Pasta turns out vibrant and delicious.

• 8.8 oz pasta of your choice: Pick your favorite shape; it cooks to al dente perfection absorbing the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 1 large zucchini (or 2 medium): Thinly sliced to roast tender and bring a subtle earthiness with loads of moisture.
• 1 red onion (or 2 shallots): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth when roasted alongside the zucchini.
• 1 whole head of garlic: Roasting mellows its bite and transforms it into a soft, spreadable treasure.
• 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese: The heart of the creamy sauce, lending smooth richness without heaviness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For roasting and flavor, helping everything caramelize and crisp lightly.
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs: Adds that classic blend of savory, aromatic notes tying the dish together.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all flavors.
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Used to loosen the sauce gently, making it silky and luscious.
• 1/4 cup vegan Parmesan cheese: Brings a tangy, nutty dimension to the sauce for extra umami.
• Fresh basil, chopped: A burst of herbaceous brightness to finish the dish beautifully.
• Lemon zest from 1 lemon: Adds a fresh, zesty kick that lifts every bite.

How to Make One Tray Creamy Zucchini Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by slicing your zucchini and red onion thinly, which allows them to roast evenly and caramelize just right. Make sure your whole head of garlic has the top gently sliced off so the cloves roast to a soft, buttery texture. This step sets the foundation of flavor and the creamy texture that makes this dish stand out.

Step 2: Roast Everything Together

On a baking tray, toss the zucchini and red onion slices with olive oil, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until each piece is lightly coated. Nestle the garlic head right on the tray and add dollops of vegan cream cheese around the veggies. Cover the tray with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and roast for 25 to 30 minutes until the veggies are tender and golden at the edges.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the vegetables roast, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; this small step will work wonders for creating the sauce’s silky consistency.

Step 4: Blend the Creamy Sauce

Once roasting is done, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Squeeze the softened garlic cloves right out of their skins into a blender along with the roasted zucchini and onion slices, vegan cream cheese, vegan Parmesan, and chopped fresh basil. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water and blend until luxuriously smooth. Adjust the texture with more pasta water if needed, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the pasta to the baking tray and pour the creamy sauce over it. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with that luscious, velvety sauce. This final step brings all the roasted goodness and creaminess together in irresistible harmony.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with fresh basil and a zest of lemon on top to brighten every bite. These final touches transform a comforting pasta into a fresh, lively dinner that feels both nourishing and special.

How to Serve One Tray Creamy Zucchini Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest not only elevate the visual appeal but add refreshing herbal and citrus layers that perfectly complement the creamy sauce. For an extra savory crunch, a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts works wonders.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a full meal on its own, but for a heartier spread, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some rustic garlic bread. Both options bring a lovely contrast in texture and freshness to balance the creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the One Tray Creamy Zucchini Pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with microgreens or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. For gatherings, a warm ceramic dish straight from oven to table adds an inviting, family-style charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the pasta taste even better the next day. Just be sure to store the sauce and pasta together to maintain that luscious texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this creamy pasta in portion-sized freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When freezing, slightly undercook the pasta initially to avoid mushiness after reheating, as the sauce retains its creaminess wonderfully even after freezing.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or plant milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving straight from frozen; thaw overnight in the fridge first for the best results ensuring the creaminess stays intact.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of vegan?

Absolutely! If you aren’t following a vegan diet, regular cream cheese works beautifully and will add a richer, tangier flavor to your creamy sauce.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any shape you like will do. Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli hold onto the sauce nicely, but even long strands like spaghetti or linguine can be delicious here.

Can I add protein to this dish?

For an extra protein boost, try tossing in cooked chickpeas, grilled tofu, or sliced tempeh. These pair well with the creamy sauce and roasted veggies without overpowering the flavors.

Is there a non-dairy Parmesan alternative?

Yes, you can find vegan Parmesan made from nuts and nutritional yeast in most health food stores, or make your own by blending cashews with a touch of salt and nutritional yeast.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free version. The sauce and roasting technique remain the same, ensuring nobody misses out on this creamy delight.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the One Tray Creamy Zucchini Pasta enough for anyone who loves meals that are simple, cozy, and full of vibrant flavor. It’s a brilliant weeknight winner that feels luxurious without the fuss. Give it a try — your taste buds and your kitchen cleanup routine will thank you!

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