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–+ servings

Zucchini Noodles with a Superfood Pesto

Rose
Zucchini Noodles with a Superfood Pesto is a fresh, vibrant low-carb dish featuring tender spiralized zucchini tossed in a nutrient-packed pesto made with leafy greens, herbs, nuts, and olive oil. Light yet satisfying, this quick 25-minute recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • spiralizer
  • food processor
  • large skillet
  • cutting board
  • chef’s knife

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup parsley
  • 1/3 cup walnuts or almonds
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1–2 cloves garlic
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Wash and trim the ends of the zucchini. Using a spiralizer, create noodle-like strands. If needed, use a julienne peeler or mandoline. Pat the noodles dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
  • In a food processor, combine spinach, basil, parsley, nuts, Parmesan, and garlic. Pulse until roughly chopped. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and blend until fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini noodles and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
  • Remove skillet from heat. Add prepared pesto to the zucchini noodles and gently toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the zucchini noodles to prevent excess moisture. Toast nuts before blending for deeper flavor. The pesto can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. For a dairy-free option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Best served immediately for optimal texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 7gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 310mgPotassium: 720mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5200IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 2mg
Keyword gluten free pasta, low carb dinner, superfood pesto, zoodles, zucchini noodles
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