Do corn and pesto go together?

Yes. Corn’s sweetness balances the richness of pesto, creating a perfect flavor contrast.

Does zucchini go with pesto pasta?

Definitely. Zucchini noodles absorb sauces well without overpowering the flavor.

Yes. They add spice and depth, especially when blended with basil and garlic.

Add grilled veggies, protein, lemon zest, or chili flakes. Play with textures and toppings.

Yes. Just store pesto separately and reheat zoodles gently.

Sure! Use a julienne peeler or mandolin to get similar results.

A bright and spicy zucchini pasta tossed in a creamy jalapeño pesto and topped with sweet corn and Parmigiano.

Scale

2 cups packed basil leaves, plus more for serving
2 jalapeño peppers, stems and seeds removed
2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons pine nuts, lightly toasted
2 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated, plus more for serving
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 zucchini, cut in half lengthwise, then sliced crosswise into 1/4-inch half circles
1 ear of corn, kernels removed
1 pound pappardelle pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a food processor, combine basil, jalapeños, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, pine nuts, and grated cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
While pulsing, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup olive oil until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the pesto aside.
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini and cook until tender, about 5–6 minutes.
Add the corn kernels and cook for another 2–3 minutes until just softened.
Add the cooked pasta and jalapeño pesto to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.
Serve warm, garnished with extra basil and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

For a milder version, use only one jalapeño or remove the ribs along with the seeds.

Keywords: pasta, pesto, jalapeño, zucchini, corn, vegetarian