Zucchini Noodles With Pesto (Printable View)

Fresh zucchini spirals tossed with aromatic homemade basil pesto for a light, satisfying meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Zucchini Noodles

01 - 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - Pinch of salt

→ Basil Pesto

04 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
05 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
07 - 1 garlic clove
08 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
10 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

11 - Additional grated Parmesan cheese
12 - Fresh basil leaves
13 - Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

# How To Make It:

01 - Combine fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic clove in a food processor. Pulse until ingredients are finely chopped and well incorporated.
02 - With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice. Process until the pesto reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
03 - Cut both ends off the zucchinis and spiralize them into noodle-like strands using a spiralizer. If noodles are excessively long, trim with kitchen scissors for easier handling.
04 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, tossing gently, until just tender but still retaining some crunch.
05 - Remove the skillet from heat. Add the prepared pesto, starting with half the amount, and toss thoroughly to coat the zucchini noodles evenly. Add more pesto as desired for taste.
06 - Divide the pesto-coated zucchini noodles between two serving plates. Top with extra grated Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You get all the comfort of pasta without that heavy, sleepy feeling afterward
  • The homemade pesto comes together in minutes and tastes infinitely better than jarred versions
02 -
  • Zucchini releases water as it cooks, so don't be alarmed if your pan looks a bit watery, it's completely normal
  • Serve immediately after tossing with pesto, because the sauce will thin out if it sits too long on the noodles
03 -
  • Salt your zucchini noodles and let them sit for 10 minutes before cooking if you want an even more pasta like texture
  • Warm your serving bowls in the oven for a few minutes, this keeps the dish hotter longer
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