Go Back
To begin making your Zucchini Basil Pesto Toast, the first crucial step is preparing the zucchini. Start by thoroughly washing the zucchini under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Once clean, use a box grater or a food processor to grate the zucchini finely. The finer the grate, the better it will mix with the pesto and toast, ensuring a balanced texture.

Zucchini Basil Pesto Toast

Discover the delightful Zucchini Basil Pesto Toast, a vibrant dish that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients. With a creamy pesto made from grated zucchini, aromatic basil, and toasted pine nuts, this toast is not only packed with flavor but also offers numerous health benefits. Perfect for any meal, its crispy bread base contrasts beautifully with the smooth topping. Follow simple preparation steps to create this nutritious, colorful dish and impress your guests or simply enjoy it for yourself.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 medium zucchini, grated

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

1-2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 slices of rustic bread (such as sourdough or whole grain)

Optional toppings: sliced cherry tomatoes, arugula, or microgreens

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini: Start by grating the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze to remove excess moisture. Set aside.

    Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped.

      Incorporate Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. If it's too thick, add a bit more olive oil.

        Combine: In a mixing bowl, gently fold the grated zucchini into the basil pesto until well combined.

          Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush with olive oil. Toast in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crisp.

            Assemble the Toast: Spread a generous layer of the zucchini basil pesto atop each slice of toasted bread.

              Add Optional Toppings: If desired, top your toast with sliced cherry tomatoes, a handful of arugula, or microgreens for an extra burst of freshness and color.

                Serve: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and enjoy your vibrant zucchini basil pesto toast immediately!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings