Zucchini Noodle Pasta with Pesto & Cherry Tomatoes 🍝🌱
This Zucchini Noodle Pasta with Pesto & Cherry Tomatoes is a light, refreshing, and nutrient-packed dish that's perfect for a quick meal. By swapping traditional pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles), this recipe is low-carb, gluten-free, and full of fresh flavors. Tossed with homemade basil pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes, it’s a simple yet delicious dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes!
Zucchini Noodle Pasta with Pesto & Cherry Tomatoes 🍝🌱
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
If you're craving a light, fresh, and flavorful meal, this Zucchini Noodle Pasta with Pesto & Cherry Tomatoes is the perfect choice! By swapping traditional pasta for zoodles (zucchini noodles), this dish is low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients. Tossed with a vibrant homemade basil pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes, every bite bursts with freshness. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch, this meal is easy to make, ready in under 20 minutes, and completely customizable. Serve it on its own or pair it with your favorite protein for a wholesome, satisfying dish! 🌱🍅✨
Kitchen Tools Needed
✅ Spiralizer –
To turn zucchini into noodles (or use a julienne peeler or mandoline slicer)
✅ Large skillet or sauté pan –
To lightly cook the zucchini noodles and garlic
✅ Blender or food processor –
To blend the homemade basil pesto
✅ Cutting board & knife –
For chopping cherry tomatoes and prepping ingredients
✅ Mixing spoon or tongs – To toss and mix the zoodles with the pesto
Ingredients
Zucchini Noodle Pasta with Pesto & Cherry Tomatoes 🍝For the Zucchini Noodles
- 2 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Basil Pesto
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or substitute with almonds or walnuts)
- 1 small garlic clove
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free option)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Zucchini Noodles
- Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchini into noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the zucchini noodles, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes (just until slightly tender). Remove from heat to avoid sogginess.
2️⃣ Prepare the Pesto
- In a food processor or blender, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse a few times, then slowly add the olive oil while blending until smooth.
3️⃣ Assemble the Dish
- Toss the warm zucchini noodles with the pesto sauce, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and gently mix.
- Top with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using).
Nutrition Information
Serving: 3 cups: 502 kcal, Carbohydrates: 26g, Protein: 15g, Fiber: 7g, Fat 11g
Benefits of Zucchini Noodle Pasta with Pesto & Cherry Tomatoes 🍝🌱
1️⃣ Low-Carb & Gluten-Free Alternative to Pasta 🌾🚫
Using zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of traditional pasta significantly reduces carbs, making it a great option for those following a diabetic diet.
2️⃣ Rich in Healthy Fats for Heart Health 💚
The olive oil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese provide monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which support heart health, brain function, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
3️⃣ Packed with Vitamins & Antioxidants 🥒🍅
Zucchini, basil, and cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants like lycopene, which help protect against cellular damage and support immune health.
4️⃣ High in Fiber for Digestion & Satiety 🏃♂️
This dish contains 7.3g of fiber per serving, which supports digestion, gut health, and blood sugar regulation, while keeping you feeling full longer.
5️⃣ Quick & Easy to Make in Under 20 Minutes ⏳✨
With minimal cooking required, this dish is perfect for a fast, nutritious meal, whether you’re meal-prepping or making a last-minute healthy dinner.
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