Avocado-Cilantro Zucchini Noodles with Lime Dressing
Fresh zucchini noodles tossed in a vibrant avocado-cilantro dressing, topped with cherry tomatoes and lime zest for a refreshing, nutrient-packed vegetarian meal. This mexican-inspired vegetarian ready in about 20 minutes blends medium zucchini, avocado, fresh cilantro into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini
- 1 avocado
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 lime
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Spiralize zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer. Heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tbsp olive oil. Add zucchini noodles and cook for 2 minutes until tender-crisp, stirring frequently; remove from heat immediately to avoid mushiness.
- Step 2: In a food processor, combine avocado, 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, juice of 1 lime, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp sea salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
- Step 3: Toss cooked zucchini noodles with half of the avocado dressing until evenly coated. Add halved cherry tomatoes and finely diced red onion, then drizzle with remaining dressing.
- Step 4: Garnish with extra cilantro leaves and lime zest. Serve immediately while zucchini is still crisp.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Avocado-Cilantro Zucchini Noodles with Lime Dressing take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (15 min prep + 5 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Avocado-Cilantro Zucchini Noodles with Lime Dressing?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Avocado-Cilantro Zucchini Noodles with Lime Dressing?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Avocado-Cilantro Zucchini Noodles with Lime Dressing for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Avocado-Cilantro Zucchini Noodles with Lime Dressing?
Mexican vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Used half the salt and it was still plenty flavorful.
- ★★★★☆
Very good for a 5-minute recipe. Would bump up the spice level though.
- ★★★★☆
Solid recipe. Not groundbreaking but definitely making it again.
