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A small glass jar is filled with Zucchini and Basil Pesto.

Zucchini and Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe

Frances Kellar
An easy way to use up summertime zucchini. This Zucchini and Basil Pesto Sauce will be your new favorite for easy and speedy weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian, American
Servings 2 cups

Equipment

  • 1 food processor or blender

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium zucchini grated (yields about 2 cups)
  • 2 large cloves garlic peeled
  • ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups packed fresh basil leaves
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  • In a food processor fitted with the shredding disc, grate the zucchini. Scoop zucchini out of the bowl and onto a clean kitchen towel. Alternatively, you can use a few layered paper towels. Wrap the towel into a ball around the zucchini, hold over the sink, and wring out the excess moisture with your hands.
  • Replace the food processor's shredding disc with the standard chopping blade. Return the shredded zucchini to the bowl. Add garlic cloves, toasted pine nuts, basil, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Process until smooth.
  • With the food processor running, add the olive oil in a slow steady stream until the pesto reaches the desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  • Scoop out the pesto and fold in the grated parmesan until well incorporated. Use in your desired pasta or dinner recipe.
Keyword pesto, summer recipes, pesto sauce, zucchini season
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