Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Welcome to our latest recipe for zucchini noodles with pesto! This dish is perfect for those looking for a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. The zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, are light, fresh, and delicious when paired with a homemade pesto sauce. Read on to learn how to make this simple and flavorful dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
To start, use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles from the 4 medium zucchinis. If you don't have a spiralizer, you can also use a julienne peeler to create long, thin strips. Once the noodles are prepared, set them aside on a paper towel to drain any excess moisture.
2. Make the Pesto Sauce
In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse the ingredients together until they are finely chopped. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Cook the Zucchini Noodles
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the zucchini noodles and sauté them for 2-3 minutes, or until they are just tender. Be careful not to overcook the noodles, as they can become mushy if they are cooked for too long.
4. Combine the Noodles and Pesto
Once the zucchini noodles are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the pesto sauce to the noodles and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Serving Suggestions:
This zucchini noodles with pesto dish can be served on its own as a light and healthy meal. However, you can also customize it by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or cherry tomatoes for extra protein and flavor. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
Thank you for trying out our zucchini noodles with pesto recipe. We hope you enjoy this fresh and flavorful take on pasta. Happy cooking!