Zucchini noodle caprese is a fresh and flavorful dish that is perfect for those who are looking for a healthy and delicious meal. This recipe is a twist on the classic Caprese salad, but instead of using traditional pasta, it uses zucchini noodles. Zucchini noodles, also known as "zoodles," are a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to pasta that is made by spiralizing zucchini into thin, noodle-like strands.
When combined with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, zucchini noodles create a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. This recipe is easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a main course. So, let's get started and learn how to make this delicious zucchini noodle caprese.
Ingredients required
- 2 tablespoon raw pine nuts, plus extra for garnish
- ¼ cup raw cashews
- 1 cup packed basil leaves
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- black pepper, to taste
MAKING ZUCCHINI NOODLE CAPRESE
Using a spiralizer, spiralize the zucchinis into thin, noodle-like strands. Alternatively, you can use a julienne peeler or a mandoline to create the zucchini noodles.
Place the zucchini noodles in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let the noodles sit for about 10 minutes to release any excess water.
Rinse the zucchini noodles with cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the zucchini noodle mixture and toss to combine.
Season the zucchini noodle caprese with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the zucchini noodle caprese immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy zucchini noodle caprese!
This zucchini noodle caprese, accompanied by a glass of wine, sangria, or limoncello, has me pining for a return trip to Italy. Enjoy!
STORAGE TIPS
Zucchini noodle caprese is best served immediately after it's prepared. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keep in mind that the longer the dish sits, the more liquid it will release, which can make the zucchini noodles softer and less firm. To prevent this, you can store the zucchini noodles and the dressing separately and mix them together just before serving.
Additional Tips
- Use a spiralizer to create evenly-sized zucchini noodles. This will make sure that they cook evenly and have a consistent texture.
- Make sure to salt the zucchini noodles and let them sit for a few minutes before cooking. This will help draw out some of the excess moisture, which can prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- You can add other vegetables to the dish, such as cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers, to give it more flavor and color.
- Consider using different types of cheese for added flavor. Feta or goat cheese would be a nice addition to the traditional mozzarella.
- If you want to make the dish a bit heartier, consider adding some protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp.
- To give the dish a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- When serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and additional flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini noodles and tomato mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply combine the two and add the cheese and basil.
Can I substitute the zucchini noodles with regular pasta?
Yes, you can use regular pasta instead of zucchini noodles. Just follow the instructions on the pasta package to cook it to your liking.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, if you prefer.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to make the dish more filling.
Can I freeze this dish?
Unfortunately, this dish does not freeze well as the texture of the zucchini noodles can become mushy when frozen and thawed.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free cheese and balsamic glaze.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers to give the dish more flavor and color.
ZUCCHINI NOODLE CAPRESE
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 8 ounces cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces small balls of buffalo mozzarella, in water
BASIL PESTO
- 2 tablespoon raw pine nuts, plus extra for garnish
- ¼ cup raw cashews
- 1 cup packed basil leaves
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ salt
- black pepper, to taste
GARNISH
- toasted pine nuts
- fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Toast the pine nuts in a skillet on medium low heat for 5 minutes, tossing gently. Then place them in your food processor.
- Toast the cashews in the same skillet for 10 minutes, tossing gently. Then transfer to your food processor.
- Add the remaining pesto ingredients into your food processor except the olive oil. Pulse until the ingredients are mixed. Turn your food processor on while slowly pouring the olive oil. Process until your pesto is smooth and creamy, then set aside.
- Cut the ends off each zucchini and use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles. Place these into a large bowl.
- Cut your tomatoes in half and place into the bowl with the zucchini. Cut your mozzarella balls in half and place in the same bowl.
- Using a spoon or spatula, remove all of the pesto from the food processor and add to the bowl. Mix all of the ingredients together until well combined. Serve immediately.
LISA’S TIPS
- For help spiralizing zucchini, watch my video on making zucchini noodles. And the spiralizer I use and love is the 6-Blade Paderno Spiralizer.
- Zucchini noodles do become watery over time, so if you make this salad ahead of time you may find some liquid pooling in the bottom of your bowl. Simply tip the bowl over the sink to drain any excess water.
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