Wave-Style Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Tarragon Pesto

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant, layered dish where zucchini noodles and vibrant pesto swirl like light waves across the plate. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian, gluten-free) ready in about 23 minutes blends medium zucchini, fresh basil, p fresh parsley 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.

★ 3.8 (15 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 8 min Serves 2 Italian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Use a spiralizer to create thin zucchini noodles from 3 medium zucchini; set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine 1/2 cup fresh basil, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1 tbsp lemon zest, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tbsp pine nuts.
  3. Step 3: Pulse while slowly drizzling 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil until smooth; transfer to a bowl.
  4. Step 4: Stir 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 tsp sea salt into the pesto until fully incorporated.
  5. Step 5: Heat a large skillet over medium heat; add zucchini noodles and 2 tbsp water. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until al dente and slightly translucent, stirring frequently to mimic wave motion.
  6. Step 6: Toss the cooked noodles with the pesto until fully coated and glossy, ensuring the vibrant green swirls resemble light waves.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Wave-Style Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Tarragon Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 23 minutes (15 min prep + 8 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Wave-Style Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Tarragon Pesto?

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 Wave-Style Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Tarragon Pesto?

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 Wave-Style Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Tarragon Pesto 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 Wave-Style Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Tarragon Pesto vegetarian?

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

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