Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients:

For the Zucchini Noodles:

• 4 medium-sized zucchini
• Salt for sprinkling

For the Pesto Sauce:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lemon (optional)

For Assembly:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Additional Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Zucchini Noodles:

1. Prepare Zucchini:
   • Wash the zucchini and trim the ends. Using a spiralizer or a julienne peeler, create zucchini noodles. Alternatively, you can use a box grater to make longer, ribbon-like noodles.
2. Sprinkle with Salt:
   • Place the zucchini noodles in a colander and sprinkle them with salt. Toss gently and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture.
3. Drain and Pat Dry:
   • After the resting period, drain any released liquid from the zucchini noodles. Pat them dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.

Pesto Sauce:

4. Prepare Pesto:
   • In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts (or walnuts), and garlic cloves. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
5. Add Olive Oil:
   • With the food processor running, gradually pour in the extra-virgin olive oil in a steady stream. Continue processing until the pesto reaches a smooth consistency.
6. Season:
   • Season the pesto with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, add the juice of half a lemon for a citrusy kick. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Assembly:

7. Combine with Zucchini Noodles:
   • In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained and dried zucchini noodles with the prepared pesto sauce. Ensure the noodles are well coated with the pesto.
8. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
   • Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, distributing them evenly throughout the zucchini noodles and pesto mixture.
9. Serve:
   • Serve the Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes in individual bowls or plates.
10. Garnish (Optional):
    • Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
11. Enjoy:
    • Enjoy this light and flavorful dish immediately as a nutritious and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.

Note:

• You can customize the pesto by adding a touch of red pepper flakes for heat or substituting some of the basil with spinach for variety.
• Feel free to experiment with other vegetables or protein sources to make the dish more hearty, such as grilled chicken or shrimp.

These Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes make for a delicious and vibrant meal that’s perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.

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