This healthy zoodle recipe features zucchini noodles with pesto, offering a delicious low carb pesto pasta alternative. Perfect for those following a keto or paleo diet, these spiralized zucchini noodles are not only easy to prepare but also make for a quick healthy pasta alternative.
Whether you’re looking for a vegan zucchini noodle recipe or a gluten free pesto pasta dish, this recipe can be customized to fit your dietary needs. Enjoy homemade pesto with zoodles for a fresh and vibrant meal, ideal for summer zucchini recipes.
Vibrant Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Indulging in a bowl of zucchini noodles with pesto offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. This healthy zoodle recipe is perfect for those seeking a low carb pesto pasta option. With the rise of keto diets, these spiralized zucchini noodles have become a go-to choice for many.
Whether you’re following a vegan zucchini noodle recipe or looking for a gluten free pesto pasta alternative, this dish is easily customizable. The homemade pesto with zoodles creates a fresh and vibrant meal, making it an ideal choice for summer zucchini recipes.
Preparation and Cooking Time
This zucchini noodle dish is not only nutritious but also quick to prepare. The entire process takes about 20 minutes, making it a perfect option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. With just 10 minutes of prep and another 10 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Serving two people, this recipe is ideal for those who want to enjoy a healthy zucchini noodle meal prep without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of this dish allows for easy adjustments to fit various dietary needs.
Ingredients for a Healthy Meal
To create this vibrant dish, you will need a few fresh ingredients. Start with two medium zucchinis, which will be spiralized into noodles. The key flavor component is the homemade basil pesto, made from fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil.
For those looking to add a touch of creaminess, nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan cheese can be included. Cherry tomatoes, halved, serve as a colorful garnish, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese enhances the dish’s appeal. This combination not only looks beautiful but also provides a burst of flavor in every bite.
Making the Perfect Pesto
Creating the pesto is a straightforward process. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while the processor runs. This method ensures a smooth and creamy pesto that perfectly coats the zucchini noodles.
Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors to your preference. This homemade pesto is not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to store-bought options, making it a staple for easy pesto zoodles.
Cooking the Zucchini Noodles
Once the pesto is ready, it’s time to prepare the zucchini noodles. Using a spiralizer, transform the zucchinis into beautiful noodle shapes. If you prefer a softer texture, lightly sauté the noodles in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until just tender.
Combining the zucchini noodles with the pesto in a large bowl allows for even distribution of flavors. Toss the noodles gently until they are well coated, creating a vibrant dish that is both visually appealing and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, divide the zoodles into bowls and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This finishing touch not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Enjoy this zucchini noodle meal as a quick healthy pasta alternative that is both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for a light yet fulfilling meal.
Easy Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
This zucchini noodle dish is made with fresh spiralized zucchini and tossed in a flavorful basil pesto sauce. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 2 people, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and nutritional yeast (if using). Pulse until coarsely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Zoodles: Spiralize the zucchinis using a spiralizer. If you prefer softer noodles, lightly sauté them in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
- Combine: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini noodles with the homemade pesto until well coated.
- Serve: Divide the zoodles into bowls and garnish with cherry tomatoes and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
