Veggie Noodle Swap (Printable Version)

Zoodles coated in homemade pesto flavored with garlic and herb goodness. A healthy, speedy 15-minute dish for any time—hot or cold.

# Ingredients:

→ Making Zucchini Noodles

01 - 4 zucchinis, medium-sized, turned into spirals
02 - 1 tbsp olive oil
03 - A pinch of salt and pepper

→ Pesto from Scratch

04 - A couple cups of tightly packed fresh basil
05 - A third of a cup of grated Parmesan cheese
06 - A quarter cup of pine nuts (or use walnuts to save some cash)
07 - Garlic cloves (2, peeled and ready)
08 - Half a cup of quality olive oil
09 - Juice squeezed from half a lemon
10 - A bit of salt and pepper

→ Optional Toppings

11 - Extra Parmesan for sprinkling
12 - A few basil leaves, for garnish
13 - Crushed red pepper flakes

# Steps:

01 - Toss the basil, Parmesan, garlic, and nuts into your processor. Give it a few whirls until it’s chopped but still a bit rough in texture.
02 - With the processor still going, drizzle in olive oil and add lemon juice. Blend until combined but not totally smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
03 - Grab a big skillet, set it on medium heat, and add your olive oil. Toss in the zucchini spirals and cook them just a couple of minutes. Keep them slightly crunchy—don't let them turn watery! Season lightly with salt and pepper.
04 - Turn off the heat, throw in about half the pesto, and toss it all together. Add more pesto bit by bit until you like how it’s coated. Keep the leftover pesto for another meal!
05 - Serve up the zoodles, and don’t forget to sprinkle over some Parmesan and a little basil if you’re in the mood for extra flair. Dig in while it’s still hot!

# Notes:

01 - Zucchini cooks super fast, so keep an eye on it. Slightly undercooked is better than mushy.
02 - This works great as a chilled meal too! Store leftovers for a tasty packed lunch.
03 - Want more protein? Add in some cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or white beans for something heartier.
04 - Don’t have a spiralizer? Use a veggie peeler for ribbons, or buy pre-cut zoodles at the store.

Back