Spring Recipes Dinner: Pesto Zucchini Noodles

Looking for a refreshing and healthy dinner option this spring? Look no further! Our Pesto Zucchini Noodles recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights.

Table of Contents

Pesto Zucchini Noodles

  • Light and fresh, perfect for springtime meals.
  • Gluten-free and low-carb, ideal for various dietary needs.
  • Quick prep time makes it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini (spiralized into noodles)
  • 1 cup fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make

Begin by spiralizing your zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer. Set them aside. In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Process until finely blended, then slowly drizzle in olive oil to create a smooth pesto sauce. In a large skillet, lightly sauté the zucchini noodles over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, just until warmed. Add the pesto sauce and toss until evenly coated. Remove from heat and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Tips

  • Choose zucchini that are firm and not overly large for best results.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Experiment with different nuts in your pesto, such as walnuts or almonds!

Make-Ahead

While the zucchini noodles are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pesto in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Storing

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that the noodles may become a bit soggy.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze the zucchini noodles as they lose texture. However, you can freeze the pesto for up to 3 months. Just thaw when ready to use!

Reheating

To reheat, warm the noodles gently in a skillet over low heat, and add a bit of olive oil if necessary. Toss with the pesto until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pesto Zucchini Noodles topped with cherry tomatoes, additional Parmesan cheese, or grilled shrimp for a complete meal. This dish pairs excellently with a light salad and a glass of white wine.

Pesto Zucchini Noodles: A Fresh Spring Favorite


Author:Amy Parker
Total Time:25 minutes
🍴Yield:2 servings

Looking for a refreshing and healthy dinner option this spring? Look no further! Our Pesto Zucchini Noodles recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale

2 medium zucchini (spiralized into noodles)
1 cup fresh basil
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

1 Spiralize zucchini into noodles and set aside.
2 In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and salt.
3 Slowly pour in olive oil until smooth.
4 Lightly sauté zucchini noodles in a skillet for 2-3 minutes.
5 Add pesto and toss until fully coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Notes

  • ℹ️ Choose zucchini that are firm and not overly large for best results.
  • ℹ️ Add cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • ℹ️ Experiment with different nuts in your pesto, such as walnuts or almonds!

Recipe Details

Preparation
15 minutes
🔥
Cooking
10 minutes
📂
Category
Dinner
📋
Method
Stovetop
🏁
Kitchen
Vegetarian

Nutrition

🍽️
Serving Size
2 servings
🔥
Calories
460
🍬
Sugar
2g
🧂
Sodium
400mg
🥄
Fat
42g
🧈
Saturated Fat
14g
⚖️
Trans Fat
0g
🍞
Carbohydrates
9g
🌿
Fiber
3g
💪
Protein
22g
❤️
Cholesterol
75mg

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