Avocado Pesto Zoodles Fusion (Printable)

Zucchini noodles tossed in creamy avocado basil pesto, finished with Parmesan and fresh herbs. Bright and refreshing.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

→ Pesto

03 - 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
04 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
05 - 2 tablespoons pine nuts or walnuts
06 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
07 - 1 clove garlic
08 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
09 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

11 - Additional grated Parmesan
12 - Fresh basil leaves
13 - Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

# Method:

01 - Spiralize the zucchini using a spiralizer or julienne peeler. Arrange the zoodles on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
02 - In a food processor, combine avocado, basil leaves, pine nuts or walnuts, Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
03 - Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently, until just tender but still firm.
04 - Remove the skillet from heat. Add the avocado pesto to the zoodles and toss thoroughly until evenly coated. If using, fold in cherry tomato halves.
05 - Transfer to serving plates and garnish with extra grated Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkling of red pepper flakes, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in 20 minutes with mostly fresh ingredients
  • Vegetarian gluten free and low carb so everyone can enjoy it
  • Delivers creamy pesto flavor with none of the heaviness of pasta
  • No cooking skills required this is almost foolproof for any home cook
02 -
  • High in healthy fats and fiber for lasting energy
  • Naturally gluten free and works for vegetarian and vegan diets
  • Pesto can be prepped ahead for faster assembly
03 -
  • Drying the spiralized zucchini well is essential to prevent a soggy result
  • Use a gentle hand when tossing noodles and pesto so they stay springy and beautiful
  • Toast your nuts for the pesto if you have a couple of extra minutes the aroma is totally worth it