Raw Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto: A Creamy & Nourishing Pasta Alternative

This raw, no-cook zucchini noodle dish is simple, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The smooth avocado pesto gives the dish a rich, satisfying texture, while the zucchini noodles keep it light and refreshing. Perfect for a summer meal or a quick, healthy dinner!

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
• Servings: 2

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Noodles:

• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• ½ tsp salt (to remove excess moisture)

For the Avocado Pesto:

1. 1 ripe avocado
2. 1 cup fresh basil leaves
3. 2 tbsp olive oil
4. 1 tbsp lemon juice
5. 1 clove garlic
6. 2 tbsp pine nuts or walnuts
7. ½ tsp sea salt
8. ¼ tsp black pepper
9. 2 tbsp water (as needed, for blending)

For Garnish:

• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp hemp seeds or extra pine nuts (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves

Optional Additions:

1. ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)
2. 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
3. ¼ cup diced cucumbers (for extra crunch)

Substitutions:

• Nut-free: Use sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts.
• Extra protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp.
• No zucchini? Use spiralized cucumber for an even lighter dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
   • Spiralize zucchinis and place them in a bowl.
   • Sprinkle with ½ tsp salt and let sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess water.
   • Pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Make the Avocado Pesto:
   • In a food processor, blend avocado, basil, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, pine nuts, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
   • Add water (1 tbsp at a time) for desired consistency.
3. Toss & Serve:
   • Mix zucchini noodles with the avocado pesto until evenly coated.
   • Top with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and hemp seeds.
4. Enjoy Immediately:
   • Serve fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 5 g
• Fats: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 3 g

Vitamins & Benefits

• Zucchini: High in water content and fiber for digestion.
• Avocado: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and potassium.
• Basil & Garlic: Boost immunity and add fresh flavor.

Did you know? Zucchini is technically a fruit! It belongs to the same family as cucumbers and melons.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Best eaten fresh, but store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the avocado will brown and zucchini will soften.

FAQ

❓ How do I keep the zucchini noodles from getting watery?
✔️ Salt them before serving and pat dry with a paper towel.

❓ Can I add protein to this dish?
✔️ Yes! Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

❓ What’s the best way to serve this dish?
✔️ Serve as a light main course or a side dish with grilled fish or chicken.