Spinach-Almond Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing, magnesium-rich pasta alternative featuring vibrant pesto and sweet tomatoes to support energy balance and reduce tension headaches. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 ready in about 17 minutes blends medium, spiralized zucchini, fresh basil, almond butter 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 310 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.

Prep: 12 min Cook: 5 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 310 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then remove from heat.
  2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine 1 cup fresh basil, 3 tbsp almond butter, 1/2 lemon juiced, 1/4 tsp sea salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Pulse until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
  3. Step 3: Toss 2 medium spiralized zucchini noodles with 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes and 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds in a bowl. Add the basil-almond pesto and toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Spinach-Almond Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes take to make?

Total time is about 17 minutes (12 min prep + 5 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Spinach-Almond Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes?

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 Spinach-Almond Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes?

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 Spinach-Almond Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes 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.

What goes well with Spinach-Almond Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes?

Mediterranean whole30 like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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