Zoodles With Creamy Pea Pesto

Welcome spring with this fresh and creamy Zoodles with Spring Pea Pesto recipe! This delicious dish features zucchini noodles and a flavorful, nutrient-rich pesto made from fresh peas, basil, mint, and more. Peas provide vitamins, minerals, plant-based protein, and fiber for a healthy and satisfying meal. Simply spiralize zucchini, blend the pea pesto, and combine for a delightful springtime dish. Enjoy over raw or sautéed zoodles or pasta of your choice for a fresh, seasonal meal that's sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into zoodles (or 20oz of store bought zoodles)

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves

• 2 garlic cloves

• Juice of half a lemon

• 1/4 cup filtered water

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves

• 1-2 cups blanched peas

• 2 tbsp salt

• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

• 2 tbsp hemp seeds

Instructions:

1. Prepare the zoodles: Wash the zucchini and pat them dry. Use a spiralizer to create zoodles from the zucchini. Set aside.

2. Blanch the peas: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the peas and cook for 1-2 minutes until they are bright green and tender. Drain the peas and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

3. Make the pea pesto sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh basil, garlic cloves, lemon juice, filtered water, fresh mint, 1 1/2 cups of blanched peas, 1 tbsp of salt, nutritional yeast, and hemp seeds. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or olive oil to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

4. Prepare the zoodles: You can serve the zoodles raw or sautéed. If you prefer them sautéed, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and the zoodles, sprinkle with the remaining 1 tbsp of salt, and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly softened but still have some crunch.

5. Assemble the dish: Toss the zoodles with the pea pesto sauce until they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the remainder of the peas on top. Divide the zoodles among 4 plates or bowls. Garnish with additional fresh basil, mint, or hemp seeds, if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Zoodles with Pea Pesto Sauce!