Mediterranean Pesto Pulse Pasta with Roasted Zucchini & Parmesan
A bright and nutritious Mediterranean-style pasta made with protein-rich pulse pasta, tossed in a fragrant basil pesto, sweet roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and topped with shaved Parmesan. Light, wholesome, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta
200g pulse pasta (chickpea, lentil, or mixed pulse pasta)
Salt for boiling
For the Roasted Zucchini
1 large zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Pesto Sauce
1 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp pine nuts or walnuts
2 small garlic cloves
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup Parmesan, grated
1–2 tbsp lemon juice
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup baby spinach
Extra basil leaves
Extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
1. Roast the Zucchini
1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Place zucchini slices on a baking tray.
3. Drizzle olive oil, add salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Roast 12–15 minutes until golden and soft.
2. Cook the Pulse Pasta
1. Bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add pulse pasta and cook 2 minutes less than package time (don’t overcook).
3. Drain and reserve 2 tbsp pasta water.
3. Make the Fresh Pesto
1. Add basil, nuts, garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan, salt & pepper to a blender.
2. Pulse gently.
3. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil until smooth and creamy.
4. Adjust lemon or salt to taste.
4. Assemble the Pasta
1. Add cooked pasta to a mixing bowl.
2. Toss with pesto (add pasta water for creaminess).
3. Add roasted zucchini and cherry tomatoes.
4. Mix gently.
5. Serve
Top with shaved Parmesan
Add fresh basil
Drizzle a little olive oil
Serve warm or room temperature
Notes
Pulse pasta cooks faster — always avoid overboiling.
Zucchini tastes best when slightly caramelized.
You can use store-bought pesto to save time, but homemade tastes fresher.
Tips
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
Add a spoon of Greek yogurt to make it extra creamy.
Add roasted pine nuts for crunch.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Can I use regular pasta?
Yes, but pulse pasta makes it healthier and high-protein.
Is it spicy?
No — completely mild and Mediterranean-friendly.
Can I meal prep?
Yes! Stays good in fridge for 2 days. Keep pesto separate for best flavor.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520 kacl
Protein: 26g
Carbs: 55g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 9g