If you're looking for a light, fresh, and satisfying meal, this Pesto Zucchini Noodles recipe is just what you need. It's a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of fresh basil, juicy cherry tomatoes, and toasty pine nuts without feeling weighed down. Perfect for a summer lunch or dinner!
Zucchini acts as the base, providing a fresh and crisp texture when spiralized into noodles. Basil leaves are the star of our pesto, offering a fragrant and herbal backbone. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami punch that rounds out the pesto. Extra virgin olive oil binds the ingredients together while adding richness. Pine nuts give a creamy texture to the pesto and a toasty crunch when used as a topping. Garlic provides a robust, savory depth. Cherry tomatoes add a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. Salt and pepper enhance all the other flavors. Finally, a touch of lemon juice brightens and balances the dish.
This dish is a fantastic standalone light meal, but you can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial dinner. Pair it with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the fresh basil and garlic notes.
Start by grabbing your zucchinis. Using a spiralizer, create long, noodle-like strands. If you don't have a spiralizer, a julienne peeler works in a pinch. Once your zucchini is transformed into zoodles, set them aside. Next, let's jump into the pesto. In your food processor, toss in the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of pine nuts, garlic cloves, and lemon juice. Give it a few pulses until everything is finely chopped and well blended.
Now, with the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. You'll want to keep an eye on the consistency — it should be smooth and creamy. Don't forget to season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Time to bring it all together! In a large mixing bowl, combine your spiralized zucchini with the fresh pesto. Toss until the zoodles are thoroughly coated. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and gently toss once more, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
For the finishing touch, sprinkle those delightful toasted pine nuts on top just before serving. They add a pleasant crunch and a nutty flavor that'll make each bite more enjoyable. And there you have it, a fresh, vibrant plate of Pesto Zucchini Noodles ready to enjoy!
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