Zoodles in Creamy Basil Pesto
Overview:
Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, have become a beloved gluten-free alternative to pasta, and when tossed in a rich, creamy basil pesto, they make for a refreshing and healthy dinner. This dish is the perfect blend of fresh, vibrant flavors from basil, avocado, and sun-dried tomatoes, combined with the satisfying texture of zucchini. With just a few simple ingredients, this Italian-inspired recipe offers a deliciously creamy, guilt-free meal that’s both vegetarian and nutritious.
Ideal for a light dinner or a wholesome side dish, Zoodles in Creamy Basil Pesto is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something both fresh and satisfying. The added bonus is that it comes together in just about 25 minutes, with no complicated steps involved.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Basil Leaves (loosely packed) | 2 cups |
| Avocado | 1, pitted |
| Cashew Nuts | 6 whole |
| Garlic Cloves | 4 cloves |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Parmesan Cheese (grated) | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Green Zucchini (medium-sized) | 2 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for sautéing) | As needed |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped) | 5 |
| Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish) | A few leaves |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 275 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Potassium | 700 mg |
| Vitamin A | 20% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 40% of Daily Value |
| Calcium | 6% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 10% of Daily Value |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Creamy Basil Pesto:
- Start by making the basil pesto. In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, cashew nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until coarsely ground.
- Add the pitted avocado, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice. Pulse again until the mixture is well combined. The pesto should still have small chunks of avocado for a creamy texture.
- Set the pesto aside while you prepare the zoodles.
-
Prepare the Zoodles:
- Wash and trim the ends off the zucchini. Using a spiralizer, create zucchini noodles (zoodles) by spiraling the zucchini into long strands. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a mandolin slicer can also be used to create thin, noodle-like slices.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add a small amount of extra virgin olive oil. Toss the zoodles in the hot pan for about 30 seconds, just enough to warm them through and slightly soften them. Be careful not to overcook them, as you want to retain their crisp texture.
- Remove from heat and transfer the zoodles to a serving dish.
-
Assemble the Dish:
- Gently toss the warm zoodles in the creamy basil pesto, ensuring each noodle is well coated.
- Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your Zoodles in Creamy Basil Pesto immediately, alongside a light summer lettuce salad for a wholesome and satisfying meal. This dish is also great as a side to grilled vegetables or as a stand-alone light dinner.
Tips for Success:
- Zoodles Texture: To ensure your zoodles don’t become soggy, make sure not to overcook them. A quick toss in the pan (no more than 30 seconds) is all they need.
- Variations: Feel free to swap out the cashew nuts for other nuts like pine nuts or almonds, depending on what you have on hand.
- Vegan Option: If you follow a vegan diet, you can easily swap the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative or omit it entirely. Nutritional yeast is a great option to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Storage: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The zoodles may release some moisture, so be sure to give them a quick toss before serving again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those busy nights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Healthy & Fresh: Packed with fresh zucchini, nutrient-rich basil, and creamy avocado, this dish is full of vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Light but Satisfying: While it’s light and low in carbs, the creamy pesto makes this meal feel indulgent, so you won’t miss traditional pasta.
Zoodles in Creamy Basil Pesto is not just a healthy dinner option—it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re eating a light meal or craving something wholesome yet satisfying, this dish will quickly become a favorite on your dinner table. Enjoy!
