Mediterranean Zucchini & Mushroom Pasta Bowl
This Mediterranean-style pasta bowl is simple, fresh, and nourishing. Zucchini keeps it light, mushrooms add savory depth, and olive oil with herbs ties everything together beautifully. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
⏱️ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: ~30 minutes
🥒 Ingredients
200 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1½ cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Finish & Garnish
Zest of ½ lemon
1–2 tbsp lemon juice (optional but recommended)
¼ cup grated Parmesan or crumbled feta
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Optional Mediterranean add-ins (non-spicy)
Kalamata olives, sliced
Cherry tomatoes, halved
A spoon of Greek yogurt for creaminess
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Sauté vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat.
Add mushrooms and cook 4–5 minutes until golden.
Add zucchini and cook another 3–4 minutes until tender but not mushy.
3. Flavor base:
Add garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Combine:
Add cooked pasta to the pan along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
5. Finish:
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, cheese, and fresh herbs. Toss once more.
6. Serve:
Serve warm in bowls with extra cheese on top.
🌿 Tips & Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or a splash of cream at the end.
For protein, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans.
Don’t overcook zucchini—it should stay slightly firm for best texture.
This dish is naturally non-spicy, just as you prefer.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQs
Can I make it whole wheat or gluten-free?
Yes, both work perfectly with this sauce style.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, refrigerate up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of water or olive oil.
Is this good cold as pasta salad?
Absolutely—add extra lemon and olive oil.
Nutritional information
Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: ~14 g
Carbohydrates: ~52 g
Healthy fats: ~18 g