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Garden-Fresh Zucchini with Collard-Peanut Pesto

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Pixicook editorial team

A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring roasted zucchini and a unique collard-peanut pesto.

Ingredients for Garden-Fresh Zucchini with Collard-Peanut Pesto

units in
USchevron
serves
4 peoplechevron

Zucchini, cut into 0.5-inch dice

0 lb

Kosher Salt

teaspoons

Roasted Peanuts, chopped

cups

Collard Leaves, loosely packed, stemmed, chopped

cups

Roasted Peanuts

cups

White Miso Paste

tablespoons

Minced Garlic

teaspoons

Lemon Juice

tablespoons

Kosher Salt

to taste

How to Make Garden-Fresh Zucchini with Collard-Peanut Pesto

1. Make the pesto

In a food processor, combine the chopped collard leaves, ⅓ cup roasted peanuts, white miso paste, and minced garlic. Blend the mixture until it forms a chunky paste. While the processor is running, slowly pour in the ½ cup of olive oil. If the pesto feels too thick, add a bit more olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice until you reach the desired texture. Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. The final result should look like a vibrant, chunky green paste.

2. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F.

3. Prepare the zucchini

While the oven is heating, toss your diced zucchini in a large bowl with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.

4. Roast the zucchini

Spread the zucchini evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast the zucchini in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are brown and slightly crisp.

5. Combine and serve

Once the zucchini is perfectly roasted, transfer it to a serving bowl. Add a few twists of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Generously dollop the collard-peanut pesto over the warm zucchini, allowing the heat to slightly melt and meld the flavors together. Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top for a crunchy finish.

Variations

Greens for Pesto Variations

Classic Basil Pesto

Base Vegetable Variations

Summer Squash Pasta

Flavor and Seasoning Variations

Lemon-Herb Twist

Nuts for Pesto Variations

Cashew Pesto

Protein Additions

Grilled Chicken or Shrimp

Pitfalls and tips

Source Fresh, Quality Ingredients

Choose fresh, firm zucchini and vibrant, crisp collard greens to ensure the best taste and texture for your dish.

Balance Your Pesto

Adjust seasoning with salt and lemon juice as you blend to achieve a harmonious flavor profile in your pesto.

Toast Your Peanuts

Toasting brings out a nutty, complex flavor in the peanuts, which enhances the pesto. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Emulsify the Pesto

Drizzle in the oil while blending to create a creamy and cohesive sauce that isn't separated or oily.

Properly Prepare Your Vegetables

Slice zucchini uniformly for even cooking and quickly blanch collard greens to retain color and reduce bitterness.

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