How to Make the Perfect Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
Italian · Easy · 25 min · 4 servings
Spiralized zucchini noodles are tossed with vibrant homemade-style pesto and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes for a fresh and light meal. It is a wonderful low-carb alternative to traditional pasta that does not sacrifice flavor.
Why this recipe works
This Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 25 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 220 calories with 6g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 large zucchini spiralized
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 0.5 cup basil pesto
- 0.25 cup pine nuts toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 0.25 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Toss the cherry tomatoes with one tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast for 10 minutes until they are slightly blistered and juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
While the tomatoes roast, spiralize the zucchini into noodles. Place them in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry gently.
Step 3: Saute the Zucchini
Heat the remaining olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini noodles and saute for just 2 to 3 minutes until barely tender. Do not overcook or they will become watery.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Remove the pan from heat and toss the noodles with pesto until evenly coated. Top with roasted cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and shaved Parmesan before serving immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- basil pesto → sun-dried tomato pesto for a deeper flavor
- pine nuts → walnuts for a more budget-friendly option
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Overcooking the zucchini noodles which makes them mushy and watery
- Not removing moisture from the zucchini before cooking which dilutes the pesto sauce
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 220 calories, 6g protein, 12g carbs, 17g fat, 4g fiber.
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