Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Herb Sauce
A refreshing, creamy pasta alternative featuring spiralized zucchini and a rich avocado-based sauce with fresh herbs. This mediterranean-inspired keto (vegetarian, low-carb) ready in about 19 minutes blends medium, spiralized zucchini, medium, pitted avocado, olive oil 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
- 2 medium, spiralized zucchini
- 1 medium, pitted avocado
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove, minced garlic
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a food processor, combine 1 medium pitted avocado, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Process until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 medium spiralized zucchini noodles. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender but still firm.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in the avocado sauce until well coated. Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and serve immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Herb Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 19 minutes (15 min prep + 4 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Herb Sauce?
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 Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Herb Sauce?
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 Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Herb Sauce 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 Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Herb Sauce vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, low-carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Perfect keto option that's actually delicious. Will be making this weekly.
- ★★★★★
This was a hit at dinner! The avocado sauce was so creamy and fresh.
- ★★★★☆
Great flavor and healthy! A bit more effort than I expected, but totally worth it.
Equipment for this recipe
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