This lemon zucchini pasta only takes 25 minutes to make, making it ideal for busy summer evenings.

Fresh zucchini blends perfectly with the lemony sauce.

If you have summer squash on hand, you’ve got the option to use that instead.

a recipe photo of the Lemon Zucchini Pasta

Photo:Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Styling: Lindsey Lower

The sweet, grassy zucchini is perfectly fork-tender and is complemented by a surprisingly fresh undertone from the mint.

Keep reading for expert tips, including ingredient substitutions.

Reserve 112 cups of the cooking water; drain the pasta and set aside.

the ingredients to make the Lemon Zucchini Pasta

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Styling: Lindsey Lower

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add shallots; cook, stirring constantly, until softened, about 2 minutes.

Divide the pasta among 4 shallow bowls.

a step in making the Lemon Zucchini Pasta

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Styling: Lindsey Lower

you’re able to prepare Lemon Zucchini Pasta through Step 3 a couple of days before serving it.

Portion it into 4 microwave-safe bowls, cover and refrigerate.

If you avoid cheese made with rennet, there are vegetarian options on the market made with vegetable-based enzymes.

a step in making the Lemon Zucchini Pasta

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Styling: Lindsey Lower

Find it in the dairy section of the grocery store.

a photo of the pasta divided into 4 servings

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Styling: Lindsey Lower