Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Name: Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 2 cloves garlic; 1/2 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I love making Zucchini Noodles with Pesto because it’s a fresh and vibrant dish that brightens up any meal. The swirls of green zucchini paired with that rich, nutty pesto create a flavor explosion that's both satisfying and healthy. This dish is perfect for warm days when you want something light but filling. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a delightful lunch. I never get tired of this simple yet delicious recipe!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-09T17:01:28.107Z

When I first tried zucchini noodles, I was surprised by how much they reminded me of regular pasta. The crunchy texture complemented the rich pesto perfectly, creating a delightful contrast that I couldn't resist. Sautéing the zucchini for just a few minutes helps to soften them slightly while keeping that vibrant green color.

One tip I discovered is not to overcook the zucchini; otherwise, they can become too watery. I usually add the pesto right at the end and give everything a quick toss, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without losing that fresh vegetable bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that awaken your palate
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
A healthy alternative to traditional pasta

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh zucchinis and basil is crucial for achieving the vibrant flavor profile of this dish. Fresh zucchinis should be firm and glossy, with no soft spots, as they will provide the ideal texture and moisture. Similarly, select basil leaves that are bright green and free from browning. This freshness translates directly to your pesto, giving it a bright and fragrant flavor that enhances the entire dish.

When it comes to the pesto, using high-quality extra virgin olive oil can elevate the flavor considerably. The oil should have a rich, fruity character, which complements the nuttiness of the pine nuts. If pine nuts are unavailable, toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds can serve as excellent substitutes, while still providing that essential depth of flavor.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing zucchini noodles requires just the right touch — too much heat or too long can lead to watery, mushy noodles. Ideally, cook them over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, just enough to soften without losing their crunch. You want them tender yet al dente, so keep an eye on them, stirring occasionally to promote even cooking.

To enhance the flavor further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the noodles. This will give the dish a subtle kick, balancing the richness of the pesto with a hint of spice. If you're serving a crowd, doubling the ingredients can easily scale this recipe without compromising the quality.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your delicious zucchini noodles:

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Here's how to make your Zucchini Noodles with Pesto:

Prepare the Zucchini

Using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler, create long noodles from the zucchinis. If you prefer, you can cut them into thin strips.

Make the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the Zucchini Noodles

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, just until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Remove from heat.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked zucchini noodles with the prepared pesto until well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your fresh, homemade zucchini noodles!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes to the mix.

Storage Tips

To keep Zucchini Noodles with Pesto fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be consumed within 2-3 days to maintain their best texture. If you plan to make it ahead, consider storing the pesto separately to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy. Pesto can also be frozen for up to three months, making it a great make-ahead option.

When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the noodles. Just a quick toss in a skillet should suffice. If you find the noodles have released too much moisture, a quick drain or squeeze with a paper towel can help manage excess liquid.

Serving Suggestions

Although this dish is delightful on its own, you can take it up a notch by adding protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp. This not only makes for a heartier meal but also complements the fresh flavors of the dish. Tossing in some cherry tomatoes or olives while sautéing the noodles can add color and additional bursts of flavor.

For a more elaborate presentation, serve the noodles in bowls topped with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, and additional grated Parmesan. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds layers of flavor that elevate your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pesto and store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week.

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, and squash also make great noodle alternatives.

→ Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

You can easily make it vegan by substituting the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.