Noodles & Company's Zucchini Noodles with Pesto (Copycat Recipe)

This delightful dish features fresh zucchini noodles tossed in a vibrant homemade basil pesto, offering a light yet flavorful meal. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a refreshing experience, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. This recipe is vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring the pesto ingredients are compliant.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create zucchini noodles from the zucchinis. Set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
5. Remove from heat and toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.