Zucchini Noodles with Pesto: A Fresh and Healthy Summer Pasta Alternative

Zucchini noodles with pesto are the perfect summer pasta alternative. Light, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this dish swaps out traditional pasta for spiralized zucchini. As a result, you get all the satisfaction of a bowl of noodles without the heaviness. Tossed in a fresh basil pesto and topped with cherry tomatoes, parmesan, or pine nuts, it’s a healthy and refreshing meal you can make in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this fresh and simple summer dish:

• 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts
• 1 garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, more parmesan, crushed red pepper

How to Make Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

1. Spiralize the zucchini
First, use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to turn the zucchini into noodles. Then set them aside on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.

2. Make the pesto
Meanwhile, in a food processor or blender, combine basil, parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until roughly blended. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth. Finally, season with salt and pepper.

3. Toss the noodles
Next, in a large bowl, gently toss the zucchini noodles with the fresh pesto until well coated.

4. Add toppings
To finish, top with halved cherry tomatoes, extra parmesan, or crushed red pepper if desired.

5. Serve immediately
Zucchini noodles are best served fresh, especially when tossed with homemade pesto. However, if you prefer them warm, sauté them in a pan for 1 to 2 minutes before tossing with pesto.

Tips for the Best Zucchini Noodles

• After spiralizing, blot the zucchini noodles with paper towels to reduce excess moisture.
• For a creamier pesto, consider adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or avocado.
• To save time, you can also prep the pesto in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Serving Ideas

• Serve as a light lunch or refreshing side dish
• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a full meal
• Toss in extra veggies like roasted red pepper or sautéed mushrooms for added color and texture

More…

• https://sailorbailey.com/blog/easy-grilled-peach-salad/
• https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/214901/strawberry-and-spinach-salad-with-honey-balsamic-vinaigrette/
• https://www.loveandlemons.com/mango-salsa/