Creamy Avocado & Zucchini Noodles with Herb Oil
A refreshing, no-cook pasta alternative featuring zucchini noodles and a rich avocado dressing that supports gut health during reintroduction. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (vegetarian, whole30) ready in about 15 minutes pairs medium, spiralized zucchini, large, pitted avocado, olive oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 310 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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, spiralized zucchini
- 1 large, pitted avocado
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil
- 1 clove, minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Place spiralized zucchini noodles in a colander and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp sea salt. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Step 2: In a food processor, combine 1 large pitted avocado, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Step 3: Toss the dried zucchini noodles with the avocado dressing until evenly coated. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Creamy Avocado & Zucchini Noodles with Herb Oil take to make?
Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Creamy Avocado & Zucchini Noodles with Herb Oil?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep medium, spiralized zucchini from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Creamy Avocado & Zucchini Noodles with Herb Oil?
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 Creamy Avocado & Zucchini Noodles with Herb Oil 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.
Is Creamy Avocado & Zucchini Noodles with Herb Oil vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, whole30 based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Substituted chicken for tofu and it worked beautifully.
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
- ★★★★☆
Very good for a 0-minute recipe. Would bump up the spice level though.
