Quick zucchini noodles recipe with creamy avocado pesto Easy healthy meal prep Learn a simple technique Ready in minutes zoodles 142
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:2 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
2 medium zucchini
A pinch of salt
2 ripe avocados
2 cups fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons water (or more, for desired consistency)
Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for non-vegan)
Grilled chicken or shrimp (optional, for added protein)
Instructions
Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchini into noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create wide ribbons, or even just chop the zucchini into small matchsticks. Place the zucchini noodles in a colander and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. This will help draw out excess moisture, preventing them from becoming soggy. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the pesto.
While the zucchini noodles are draining, prepare the avocado pesto. In a food processor, combine the ripe avocados, fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts (or walnuts), olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, you want it to be creamy and spreadable, not pasty!
Gently pat the zucchini noodles dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing a watery dish. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini noodles and the avocado pesto. Toss gently until the noodles are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the zucchini to break.
Transfer the zucchini noodles to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as halved cherry tomatoes, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (if you’re not vegan). If you want to add some protein, grilled chicken or shrimp would be a fantastic addition. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!
