Print

Fresh Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Pasta Salad with Easy Homemade Pesto Recipe

low-carb zucchini noodle pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A fresh, low-carb zucchini noodle pasta salad tossed with a flavorful homemade pesto, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (about 4 cups)
  • 2 packed cups fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry 4 medium zucchinis. Using a spiralizer, create noodles and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with a teaspoon of salt and toss gently. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1/3 cup pine nuts, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. In a food processor, combine 2 packed cups fresh basil leaves, cooled pine nuts, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice. Pulse until coarsely chopped, then slowly drizzle in 1/3 cup olive oil while blending until smooth but still a bit textured. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini noodles with 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and the homemade pesto. Toss gently to coat evenly. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  5. Serve immediately for maximum freshness or chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to let flavors meld. If chilling, toss again briefly before serving.

Notes

Salt zucchini noodles and let them drain to prevent watery salad. Toast pine nuts carefully to avoid burning. Do not over-blend pesto to keep texture. Toss salad gently to avoid mushy noodles. Serve fresh or within a few hours for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini noodles, low-carb, pesto, pasta salad, healthy, gluten-free, vegetarian, summer salad

Find it online: https://sagestirs.com/fresh-low-carb-zucchini-noodle-pasta-salad-with-easy-homemade-pesto-recipe/