Zucchini Noodles with Basil Pesto

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

Light zucchini noodles tossed in vibrant basil pesto, packed with antioxidants. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 ready in about 10 minutes pairs Zucchini, Basil, Pine nuts for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 110 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a Whole30 week and pairs well with roasted sweet potato or a simple olive-oil salad. 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: 10 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 110 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a food processor, combine 1/2 cup packed basil, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 lemon juiced, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Process until smooth, scraping down sides, then set aside.
  3. Step 3: Toss 4 medium spiralized zucchini noodles with 1/4 cup of the basil pesto until evenly coated.
  4. Step 4: Serve immediately as a vibrant side or main, garnished with extra basil leaves for visual appeal.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodles with Basil Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Zucchini Noodles with Basil Pesto?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep zucchini from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini Noodles with Basil 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 Zucchini Noodles with Basil Pesto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Zucchini Noodles with Basil Pesto whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30 based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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