If you love the comfort of pasta but want to keep things light, refreshing, and plant-based, Vegan Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto is the perfect recipe for you. This dish swaps out traditional pasta for spiralized zucchini — also known as “zoodles” — and pairs it with a rich, creamy avocado pesto that’s bursting with fresh flavor.
Zucchini noodles offer a low-carb, nutrient-packed alternative to pasta, and the avocado pesto is a delicious way to enjoy healthy fats without any dairy. This recipe is great for warm-weather meals, meal prep, or whenever you’re craving something that’s both satisfying and energizing.
Ingredients:
For the Zucchini Noodles:
- 3-4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Avocado Pesto:
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
- Make the Avocado Pesto:
In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast if using. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed for brightness and flavor. - Prepare the Zoodles:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the spiralized zucchini and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until slightly softened but still crisp-tender. Avoid overcooking to maintain that perfect noodle texture. - Toss and Serve:
Remove the zucchini noodles from heat and toss them with the avocado pesto until fully coated. Serve immediately and garnish with extra basil, cherry tomatoes, or crushed nuts for added texture.
Vegan Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto is the perfect combination of comfort and clean eating. It’s a vibrant, nourishing meal that takes just minutes to prepare — proof that eating healthy can be both quick and delicious! Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.