Looking for a light, refreshing, and flavorful meal that checks all the boxes for dietary restrictions? This Zucchini Noodles with Pesto recipe is the perfect choice! It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-carb, making it ideal for those on keto or paleo diets. With fresh basil pesto and tender zucchini noodles, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, ready in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (also known as “zoodles”)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp pine nuts (or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pesto:
Combine the basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, pine nuts (or sunflower seeds), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside. - Sauté the Zucchini Noodles:
Heat a large pan over medium heat and lightly drizzle with olive oil. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until they soften slightly. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. - Combine and Serve:
Remove the zucchini noodles from heat and toss with the prepared pesto sauce until well coated. Serve immediately while still warm.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- Cherry tomatoes, halved for a pop of color and sweetness
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy
Recipe Tips for Best Results:
- Dry your zucchini noodles: After spiralizing the zucchini, pat the noodles dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and prevent them from getting too soggy.
- No spiralizer? Use a julienne peeler or a regular vegetable peeler to make thin strips of zucchini for a similar effect.
- Raw or cooked? You can also serve zucchini noodles raw for an even quicker, crunchier meal.
Nutrition (per serving, serves 2):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
This Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Carb-Free Zucchini Noodles with Pesto is a perfectly healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s light, refreshing, and full of fresh basil flavor, making it ideal for a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a nutritious, low-carb dish that fits into a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a fresh, healthy meal, these zucchini noodles will hit the spot!
