Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 5 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a fresh and vibrant meal that's as delightful as it is nutritious, this Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto recipe is your answer. It's a light, no-cook dish perfect for those warm days when you crave something healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients for Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto

Zucchinis serve as the base, spiralized into noodles that mimic pasta in texture and appearance, but with fewer carbs. Avocados are the stars of the pesto, adding creaminess and healthy fats. Fresh basil leaves bring that classic pesto flavor, while pine nuts add a nutty depth. Garlic gives a bit of punch, and extra-virgin olive oil provides a smooth, rich texture. Parmesan cheese adds saltiness and umami, with lemon juice brightening the flavors. Finally, a touch of salt and pepper rounds everything off.

Tips & Tricks

  • Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the creamiest pesto.
  • If the pesto is too thick, add a splash of water or more lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.
  • For a nut-free version, substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp. A fresh side salad with a simple vinaigrette complements it well, adding a bit of crunch and acidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pesto and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just give it a good stir before using.
What if I don't have a spiralizer?
You can use a julienne peeler or even a regular vegetable peeler to make wide, fettuccine-like noodles.

Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto Recipe Walkthrough

Start by spiralizing your zucchinis. If you don't have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler or julienne peeler will work just as well. Once you've created all your zucchini noodles, set them aside. Next, grab your food processor and toss in the avocados, basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend everything until smooth and creamy — you want a consistency that's easy to toss with the noodles. With your pesto ready, combine it with the zucchini noodles, ensuring they're well coated. Serve your dish immediately, maybe garnished with a few extra pine nuts and basil leaves for that extra touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with nutrients and flavor without any cooking required.
  • Low-carb and gluten-free, making it a healthy choice for many diets.
  • Creamy avocado pesto gives a delicious twist on traditional pesto.

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis
2 ripe avocados
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 garlic cloves
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Spiralize the zucchinis to create noodles and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine avocados, basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Toss the zucchini noodles with the avocado pesto until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra pine nuts and basil if desired.

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