Description
This High-Protein Zucchini Pesto Bowl is packed with fresh zucchini ribbons, creamy basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, crispy sourdough croutons, and protein-rich chickpeas. It is light, vibrant, satisfying, and perfect for a quick healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium zucchini, shaved into ribbons
- 1 cup red cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup yellow cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 packed cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3 cups cubed sourdough bread
- 2 cups baby arugula
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Add basil, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and half the chickpeas to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Spread cubed sourdough bread onto the prepared baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Toast for 10 to 12 minutes until golden and crisp.
- In a large bowl, toss zucchini ribbons, baby arugula, remaining chickpeas, and pesto together until evenly coated.
- Allow the croutons to cool slightly while the zucchini softens gently in the pesto mixture.
- Top the bowl with cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, extra basil leaves, and crispy croutons.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat zucchini ribbons dry before assembling to avoid excess moisture.
- Store croutons separately to keep them crispy.
- Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 12mg
Keywords: high protein zucchini pesto bowl, zucchini pesto salad, healthy pesto bowl, Mediterranean zucchini bowl, chickpea pesto bowl, healthy vegetarian dinner, zucchini ribbon bowl