Lemon Thyme Zucchini Pasta

Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture

   2 min hands-on

   • Combine egg yolk, grated Parmesan, and a generous amount of black pepper in a bowl.
   • Grate lemon zest into the mixture and whisk until smooth and creamy.
   • Set aside for later.

2. Cook the Pasta

   2 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • Boil salted water in a large pot.
   • Cook the pasta until al dente, reserving some pasta water before draining.

3. Prepare the Zucchini

   6 min hands-on

   • Wash and slice zucchini into thin strips.
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté zucchini for 4–5 minutes until softened and caramelized.

4. Add Garlic and Thyme

   2 min hands-on

   • Chop garlic and add to the skillet with zucchini, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add thyme leaves, reserving some for garnish, and season with salt and pepper.

5. Deglaze the Pan

   2 min waiting

   • Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and simmer for 1–2 minutes to create a light sauce.

6. Combine Pasta and Vegetables

   1 min hands-on

   • Transfer drained pasta to the skillet with zucchini mixture and toss to combine.
   • Remove skillet from heat.

7. Incorporate the Egg Mixture

   3 min hands-on

   • Gradually pour egg and Parmesan mixture over pasta, tossing continuously.
   • Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.

8. Finish with Lemon and Thyme

   2 min hands-on

   • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and toss gently.
   • Serve immediately, garnished with black pepper, reserved thyme leaves, and additional Parmesan if desired.
   • Cooking tips:
   • To prevent the egg mixture from scrambling, make sure the skillet is off the heat before adding it to the pasta.
   • Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly for a smooth and cohesive sauce.
   • Save more pasta water than needed, as it’s a simple way to adjust the creaminess of the sauce.
   • Use a microplane to grate the Parmesan and lemon zest finely for better incorporation into the sauce.
   • For additional flavor, add a pinch of red chili flakes while sautéing the garlic, if desired.