Zucchini Noodles With Pesto (Printable Version)

Fresh zucchini spirals with homemade basil pesto for a light, healthy Italian-inspired meal.

# What You Need:

→ Zucchini Noodles

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

→ 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 lemon juice
10 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

11 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese
12 - Fresh basil leaves
13 - Crushed red pepper flakes, optional

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
02 - With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil and lemon juice until the pesto achieves a smooth consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
03 - Using a spiralizer or julienne peeler, transform the zucchinis into thin noodle-like strands.
04 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add spiralized zucchini noodles with a pinch of salt and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender but maintaining a slight firmness.
05 - Remove the skillet from heat and toss zucchini noodles with the desired amount of pesto, beginning with half the quantity and adjusting to taste preference.
06 - Distribute the dressed zucchini noodles evenly between serving plates. Top with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Vibrant, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
  • Features a fresh and fragrant homemade basil pesto.
  • Quick and easy preparation in only 20 minutes total.
  • Suitable for vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-carb diets.
02 -
  • Start by adding half the pesto to the noodles and add more to taste.
  • Always check labels for potential allergens in cheese.
  • Use a food processor or blender to ensure the pesto ingredients are finely chopped and emulsified.
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