Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado and Pine Nuts

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Light, refreshing zucchini noodles tossed with creamy avocado and toasty pine nuts for a nutrient-packed keto side or main. This mediterranean-inspired vegetarian (keto) ready in about 17 minutes pairs zucchini, avocado, pine nuts for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 210 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly into a low-carb week and pairs well with cauliflower rice or roasted green vegetables. 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.

★ 4.4 (15 ratings) Prep: 12 min Cook: 5 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 210 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Spiralize 2 medium zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer. Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon pine nuts and toast for 1 minute until golden, stirring constantly.
  3. Step 3: Add zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat with oil. Cook for 3 minutes until tender but still firm, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, then stir in 1/2 mashed avocado and 1 teaspoon lemon juice until combined and creamy.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado and Pine Nuts take to make?

Total time is about 17 minutes (12 min prep + 5 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 Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado and Pine Nuts?

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 zucchini from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Avocado and Pine Nuts?

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 and Pine Nuts 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 and Pine Nuts keto?

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

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