Zucchini Pesto
I love adding unexpected vegetables to pesto like this beet pesto, broccoli pesto, and sun-dried tomato pesto. And since we eat a lot of zucchini, it was only a matter of time before it made its way into a pesto. Whether you have an abundance of zucchini or are looking for a lighter and unique variation, this bright green sauce is sure to become one of your go-tos! And if you’re looking for an extra creamy pesto, try this easy ricotta pesto!
Ingredients
Zucchini – Grated works best! Use the large holes of a box grater. While you’re at it, grate extra to easily add to any of these quick toddler breakfast and lunch for daycare or preschool. Almonds – While I love the marriage of zucchini and almonds, you can swap with walnuts, pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds. Parmesan – I’ve also tried this with cheddar cheese and it turned out delicious! Basil – You don’t really need to be exact with the measurements here. I like to add a handful. Feel free to add more or less.
Nuts and Seeds for Babies
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for Success
Be sure to squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can from the zucchini and carrots by using a dish towel or cheesecloth. Otherwise, you will end up with very watery pesto. As with any pesto or dips, use good quality extra virgin olive oil. It truly can make all the difference in the world! I recommend cold pressed, organic. Once blended, add more cheese or lemon juice to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
Oh there are SO many ways to enjoy this refreshing pesto! Here are some suggestions:
Toss with some pasta – like this pesto orzo salad Add on top of fish, chicken, tofu, or eggs Spread on toast, sandwiches, quesadillas Use as a pizza sauce like in this chicken pesto flatbread! Enjoy as a dip for vegetables – if you have a fussy eater, this is most definitely worth a try!
How to serve pesto to Babies
Click on any of the links above for specific tips and pictures. If serving with pasta, opt for bigger-sized shapes, like fusili or rigatoni. Here are more tips on serving pasta to babies. Start with small portions to make it less overwhelming for your baby. This will also help reduce food waste. You can always offer more if they seem interested.
How to serve to toddlers
It is common for toddlers to reject mixed foods, especially if they weren’t introduced to them often as a baby. In this case, don’t stop offering! They will need a lot of pressure-free exposure. For example, serve just a tiny portion of pesto pasta next to plain pasta. Even if your child doesn’t eat it, just seeing it counts as exposure. And the more they become familiar, the more likely they are to accept and try in the future. Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me! The post was first published in 2013.
