Zucchini Noodles With Avocado Pesto
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Equipment:
Spiralizer or vegetable peeler
skillet
mixing bowl
spoon
Cuisine Type: Vegetarian
Zucchini Noodles With Avocado Pesto is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional pasta, perfect for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet. This dish features spiralized zucchini, which has a light and invigorating texture, combined with a creamy avocado pesto that adds richness and flavor without the need for heavy creams.
It’s not only quick to prepare but also offers a vibrant and colorful presentation, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. The avocado pesto is made with fresh basil, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice, creating a bright and zesty sauce that pairs beautifully with the zucchini noodles.
This recipe is highly customizable; feel free to add your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it a heartier meal. Enjoy this guilt-free dish that’s packed with healthy fats and nutrients, while still being incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Begin by spiralizing the zucchinis using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create long noodle-like strands. If you prefer, you can also cut the zucchini into thin ribbons. Set the zucchini noodles aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ripe avocado, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or a food processor to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the zucchini noodles. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, just until they’re slightly tender but still retain a bit of crunch. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
- Remove the skillet from heat and add the avocado pesto to the zucchini noodles. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce, ensuring all the flavors are well combined.
- Transfer the zucchini noodles to serving plates and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes if desired. Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy the fresh flavors.
Extra Tips
For added texture, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the avocado pesto. You can also incorporate a protein source like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day.