Sautéed Zucchini Ribbons with Almond Pesto
Crisp zucchini ribbons tossed in a rich, nutty pesto sauce for a refreshing low-carb side. This italian-inspired keto (vegetarian, low-carb) ready in about 14 minutes blends medium (2 cups, spiralized) zucchini, (finely chopped) almonds, (packed) fresh basil 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 210 calories and feeds 1, 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 (2 cups, spiralized) zucchini
- 2 tbsp (finely chopped) almonds
- 1/4 cup (packed) fresh basil
- 1 clove (minced) garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp lemon juice
- 1/8 tsp salt
- pinch black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 cups spiralized zucchini ribbons and cook for 3-4 minutes until edges are slightly golden and tender but still crisp.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Zucchini Ribbons with Almond Pesto take to make?
Total time is about 14 minutes (10 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 Ribbons with Almond Pesto?
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 Ribbons with Almond 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 Sautéed Zucchini Ribbons with Almond Pesto for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 1 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 1). 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 Ribbons with Almond Pesto 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
- ★★★★★
Added some red pepper flakes for heat — highly recommend.
- ★★★★★
The aroma while cooking this was absolutely heavenly.
- ★★★★☆
Good flavors but the sauce was a bit thin. I'd reduce it longer.
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