If you’re looking for a healthy, fresh, and insanely delicious meal, this Zoodles with Avocado Pesto recipe is about to become your new favorite! Zucchini noodles (a.k.a. zoodles) are tossed in a creamy, garlicky, and vibrant avocado pesto, creating a dish that’s light, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.
The best part? It’s low-carb, gluten-free, dairy-free, and ready in under 20 minutes! Whether you’re following a keto, vegan, or paleo diet or just want a nutritious, feel-good meal, this zoodles recipe checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Super Healthy & Low-Carb – A nutritious alternative to pasta.
✔️ Creamy Without Dairy – Thanks to ripe avocado!
✔️ Packed with Flavor – Garlic, basil, and lemon make this pesto irresistible.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
✔️ Customizable – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or cherry tomatoes for variety.
Ingredients for Zoodles with Avocado Pesto
To make this simple yet flavorful dish, you’ll need:
For the Zoodles:
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Avocado Pesto:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for nut-free)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (or Parmesan for non-vegan)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Red pepper flakes for spice
- Toasted pine nuts for crunch
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
✔️ Spiralizer or Julienne Peeler – To create perfect zoodles.
✔️ Food Processor or Blender – For the creamy avocado pesto.
✔️ Large Skillet – To lightly sauté the zucchini noodles.
How to Make Zoodles with Avocado Pesto
Step 1: Prepare the Zoodles
Using a spiralizer, julienne peeler, or sharp knife, cut the zucchini into noodle-like strands. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Make the Avocado Pesto
In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, basil, pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and nutritional yeast (or Parmesan). Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Cook the Zoodles
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until slightly softened. Avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess.
Step 4: Toss & Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and toss the warm zoodles with the avocado pesto until well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with cherry tomatoes, extra basil, or red pepper flakes.
What to Serve with Zoodles with Avocado Pesto
This light yet flavorful dish pairs well with:
A fresh green salad – A simple arugula or spinach salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or keto-friendly almond flour bread – For a crunchy contrast.
Grilled protein – Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
Pro Tips for the Best Zoodles
✔️ Don’t Overcook – Zoodles should be tender but not mushy. A quick sauté is all they need!
✔️ Use Ripe Avocado – A soft, ripe avocado creates the creamiest pesto.
✔️ Remove Excess Moisture – Pat the zucchini dry before cooking to prevent watery noodles.
✔️ Adjust the Thickness – If the pesto is too thick, add a splash of water or more olive oil.
✔️ For More Protein – Stir in cooked chickpeas, hemp seeds, or grilled tofu.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The avocado may darken slightly, but the flavor will still be great.
Reheating: For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the zoodles soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I eat zoodles raw?
Yes! If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can toss the zoodles with the pesto without cooking them.
Can I make this nut-free?
Absolutely! Swap pine nuts for sunflower seeds or hemp seeds for a nut-free version.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! If you’re short on time, a vegan or classic basil pesto works great as a substitute.
Can I use other vegetables for noodles?
Definitely! Try using carrots, sweet potatoes, or cucumbers for a fun twist.
Final Thoughts – Why You NEED to Try These Zoodles with Avocado Pesto!
This Zoodles with Avocado Pesto recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed alternative to traditional pasta. It’s creamy, garlicky, and bursting with fresh basil flavor while being low-carb, vegan, and gluten-free!
More Delicious & Healthy Recipes to Try:
- Vegan Banana Bread – Moist, Fluffy & Naturally Sweet
- – A plant-based twist on a classic favorite!
- Garlic Lemon Shrimp with Zoodles – A fresh and protein-packed variation.
- Creamy Vegan Alfredo Sauce – Another dairy-free pasta alternative!
Now, grab those zucchinis and get spiralizing!