Zucchini Ribbons with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Summer is the season for fresh, vibrant produce, and one of the best ways to celebrate it is with light, refreshing dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. Zucchini Ribbons with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes is a perfect example of such a dish. It’s a beautiful, colorful side that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning and healthy addition to your summer table.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

1. Fresh and Seasonal Ingredients

This dish features zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and pesto, all of which are at their peak during the summer months. The freshness of the ingredients shines through, making each bite a burst of seasonal goodness.

2. Quick and Easy

With minimal prep and no cooking required, you can have this dish ready in just 10 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

3. Healthy and Light

Zucchini ribbons are a low-carb, low-calorie alternative to pasta, and the pesto adds healthy fats and a punch of flavor. Cherry tomatoes contribute a burst of sweetness and a dose of vitamins.

4. Versatile

Serve this dish as a side with grilled meats, fish, or a light main course. It’s also great for potlucks, picnics, or as part of a vegetarian spread.

Ingredient Notes

Zucchini. Zucchini ribbons are a fun and creative way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. By using a vegetable peeler or a mandoline slicer, you can create thin, delicate ribbons that are perfect for tossing with other ingredients.

Pesto. Pesto adds a burst of herbaceous flavor and a rich, creamy texture to any dish. Use your favorite store-bought pesto or make your own!

Cherry Tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes are the perfect companion to zucchini ribbons and pesto. Their sweet and tangy flavor adds a pop of freshness to the dish, while their juicy texture provides a nice contrast to the tender zucchini ribbons.

More Summer Sides

• Perfect Potato Salad (Mayo Free!)
• Italian Green Beans with Olives and Tomatoes
• Honey Balsamic Pasta Salad

Print Pin Recipe

Zucchini Ribbons with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

A beautiful, colorful summer side dish that’s a stunning and healthy addition to your summer table.

Author: Sammy

Ingredients

• 1½ lb zucchini (3 medium)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
• salt and pepper to taste
• ½ c pesto (see below)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

• Thinly slice zucchinis into thin ribbons- use vegetable peeler, mandoline, or slicing slide of a box grater. Transfer ribbons to colander and toss with 1 tsp salt. Allow to sit and drain over sink for 15-30 minutes.
• As the zucchini sits, add halved cherry tomatoes to a large serving bowl. Generously season with salt and pepper. And let sit for a few minutes to allow the juices to be released from the tomatoes.
• Rinse the zucchini well and pat dry with clean dishtowel. Add ribbons to bowl with tomatoes. Add pesto and olive oil. Toss well and serve immediately.