Zucchini Noodles with Pesto (20 Minutes)

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This vibrant and healthy alternative to traditional pasta combines zucchini noodles with a homemade pesto sauce. The zucchini noodles provide a refreshing crunch while the pesto adds a burst of herbaceous and garlicky flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for a quick meal. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, or grilled chicken

Instructions

  1. Using a spiralizer or a julienne peeler, create zucchini noodles from the four medium zucchinis. Set the noodles aside on a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.
  2. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined.
  3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they are just tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as zucchini noodles can become mushy.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat and add the prepared pesto sauce to the zucchini noodles. Toss gently until the noodles are coated evenly with the sauce.
  6. Serve the zucchini noodles with pesto immediately. You can top them with cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, or grilled chicken for added flavor and texture.

Notes

To prevent the zucchini noodles from becoming watery, lightly salt them and let them sit on a paper towel for a few minutes. Then, pat them dry before cooking Feel free to customize the pesto sauce by adding other herbs or greens such as spinach or arugula. This will add different flavors and make your pesto unique. If you don’t have a spiralizer or julienne peeler, you can find pre-packaged zucchini noodles in many grocery stores as a convenient alternative. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/zucchini-noodles-with-pesto-20-minutes/