Herb-Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Pine Nuts

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant, low-carb pasta alternative featuring zucchini noodles tossed in a fresh basil pesto with crunchy pine nuts. Ready in 20 minutes with no added sugars. This mediterranean-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian, low-carb) ready in about 20 minutes blends medium, spiralized zucchini, packed fresh basil leaves, pine nuts into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 3.6 (10 ratings) Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spiralized zucchini noodles and cook for 2 minutes until tender-crisp, then immediately transfer to a colander to drain.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine basil, pine nuts, minced garlic, 1 tbsp olive oil, and 1/4 cup grated parmesan. Blend with a hand mixer for 1 minute until smooth, adding 1 tsp water if too thick.
  3. Step 3: Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add drained zucchini noodles and toss for 2 minutes until coated and heated through.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and the remaining 1/4 cup parmesan cheese. Toss until the pesto coats the noodles evenly.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Herb-Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Pine Nuts take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Herb-Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Pine Nuts?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Herb-Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Pine Nuts?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Herb-Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Pine Nuts for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Herb-Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Pine Nuts vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, low-carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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