Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes is a fresh, light dish perfect for those looking for a healthy and quick meal option. This dish combines the crisp textures of zucchini with the rich flavours of homemade pesto and the sweet juiciness of cherry tomatoes, making it ideal for a busy lifestyle. It’s not only low in calories but also rich in nutrients, providing a delightful alternative to traditional pasta.
ingredients
4 large zucchinis, spiralized
200g cherry tomatoes, halved
100g fresh basil leaves
50g pine nuts
2 cloves garlic, minced
50g Parmesan cheese, grated
100ml olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
quick facts
Total Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Shelf Life: 2 days in the fridge
Difficulty Level: Easy
nutritional information
Calories: 250 per serving
Proteins: 7g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fats: 20g
Significant vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin K
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, minced garlic, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the spiralized zucchini noodles in a large bowl. Toss with the freshly made pesto until the noodles are well-coated.
- Gently mix in the halved cherry tomatoes.
- Divide the zucchini noodles among the meal prep containers and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Storage tips
Store in airtight containers, ideally with a small amount of space at the top to keep the noodles from becoming soggy. Refrigerate and consume within two days for best quality.
reheating instructions
Best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to maintain the freshness and texture of the noodles and tomatoes.
benefits
This meal is incredibly heart-healthy and rich in antioxidants, providing essential nutrients without the heaviness of traditional pasta. It’s perfect for those on a gluten-free diet or anyone looking to increase their vegetable intake.
Serving suggestions
Serve as a light main course or as a side dish. For added protein, top with grilled chicken or flaked salmon. A few chilli flakes can also be added for those who prefer a bit of heat.