Pesto Zucchini Noodles
User Reviews
5
Pesto Zucchini Noodles
Description
This recipe uses medium zucchinis, sliced with a spiralizer or mandolin to form thin, noodle-like strands often referred to as zoodles. The noodles are sautéed briefly in olive or coconut oil over medium-high heat, which softens them slightly while maintaining some firm texture.
The sautéed zucchini noodles are then combined with a generous portion of basil pesto and halved cherry tomatoes, creating a flavorful coating of fragrant pesto that complements the mild zucchini. The tomatoes add brightness and a juicy contrast.
The dish serves well as a light vegetarian option or a low-carb side. Optional additions mentioned include parmesan, nutritional yeast, protein like chicken or shrimp, garlic, lemon juice, and toasted nuts or seeds for crunch, allowing customization for richer meals or snacks.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini
- ¼- ⅓ cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomato
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
Instructions
- Slice the zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer or mandolin slider.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large saute pan. Add the zucchini noodles and saute for 3-4 minutes over medium high heat.
- Transfer the zoodles to a serving bowl and add the basil pesto and tomatoes
- Toss to coat well.
Notes
- Top the dish with parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast to enhance flavor.
- Add proteins such as chicken or shrimp for a fuller meal.
- Include sliced onions, scallions, or minced garlic for added aroma and flavor.
- Adding lemon juice adds a subtle citrus brightness.
- To add texture, toast and sprinkle nuts or seeds like almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or pine nuts.
- For heat, crushed red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 195 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 195kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 7g | 2% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 17g | 26% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 2mg | 1% |
| Sodium | 349mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 383mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 1025IU | 21% |
| Vitamin C | 26.3mg | 29% |
| Calcium | 82mg | 8% |
| Iron | 0.8mg | 4% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.