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When it comes to pasta dishes that are both delicious and nutritious, Zucchini Pesto Pasta stands out as a vibrant option that appeals to a wide range of palates. This dish combines the hearty satisfaction of pasta with the fresh, garden-fresh flavors of zucchini and pesto, creating a meal that is not only visually appealing but also packed with health benefits. As more people embrace healthy eating habits, recipes like this one offer an excellent way to enjoy traditional comfort food without compromising on nutrition.

Zucchini Pesto Pasta

Discover the delightful combination of flavors in Zucchini Pesto Pasta, a dish that marries fresh zucchini with creamy pesto for a healthy twist on a classic favorite. This vibrant meal is packed with essential nutrients and can be personalized with various pasta types, nuts, and optional spices. Perfect for health-conscious eaters, this recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports balanced nutrition. Dive into this fresh, flavorful delight and impress at any gathering.
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Ingredients
  

2 medium zucchinis

12 oz (340g) spaghetti (or any pasta of your preference)

1 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed

1/4 cup pine nuts (or substitute with walnuts)

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for an extra kick)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini:

    Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles (also known as zoodles) or, if you prefer a different texture, slice the zucchinis into thin rounds. Set your prepared zucchini aside.

      Cook the Pasta:

        Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

          Make the Pesto:

            In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, pine nuts, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until coarsely blended. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more oil if necessary. Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste.

              Combine Everything:

                In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, zucchini noodles, and the freshly made pesto. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles. Toss everything together until well-coated and evenly distributed.

                  Serve:

                    Plate the zucchini pesto pasta in bowls, garnishing with halved cherry tomatoes on top. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

                      Enjoy:

                        Serve warm and savor the delightful mix of flavors and textures while it's fresh!

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                            15 min | 30 min | Serves 4