Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Fresh zucchini noodles tossed in a creamy avocado pesto make for a refreshing, low-carb vegetarian meal. This italian-inspired low carb (low carb, vegetarian) ready in about 15 minutes pairs medium zucchini, ripe avocado, packed fresh basil leaves for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, 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.

★ 4.4 (9 ratings) Prep: 15 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Using a spiralizer, create noodles from 3 medium zucchinis. Set aside in a colander to drain excess moisture.
  2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine 1 ripe avocado, 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, 1 garlic clove, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Process until smooth and creamy.
  3. Step 3: Toss zucchini noodles with the avocado pesto until evenly coated. Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese on top before serving for a savory finish.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto 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 Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto?

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 zucchini from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto?

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 Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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