Creamy Keto Pesto Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)
A 15-minute low-carb pasta alternative that’s both fresh and satisfying
KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Difficulty: Easy
- Diet: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian (Vegan-adaptable)
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Spiralizer (or sharp knife/mandoline)
- Food processor (or blender)
- Large skillet
- Paper towels
INGREDIENTS
For the Zoodles:
- 2 medium zucchini (about 400g/14oz)
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Creamy Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (50g/1.8oz)
- ½ cup pine nuts (60g/2.1oz) + extra for garnish
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (120ml/4oz)
- ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (60ml/2oz)
- ½ tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
METHOD
- Spiralize zucchini into noodles. Place on paper towels and sprinkle with salt to draw out moisture.
- Add basil, pine nuts, and garlic to food processor. Pulse until roughly chopped.
- With processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
- Heat large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add pesto and cream/coconut milk, stirring to combine.
- Pat zucchini noodles dry and add to skillet.
- Toss gently for 1-2 minutes until just warmed through – zoodles should still have some crunch.
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Don’t skip salting and drying the zucchini.
- Never overcook zoodles – they’ll get mushy.
- Use room temperature cream to prevent sauce separation.
- Make extra pesto and freeze in ice cube trays.
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
- Pesto: 1 week refrigerated
- Assembled dish: Best eaten immediately
- Freeze extra pesto up to 3 months
Variations:
- Vegan: Use coconut cream + nutritional yeast
- Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp
- Nut-free: Substitute sunflower seeds for pine nuts
Per Serving:
- Calories: 425
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 42g
- Protein: 8g
This dish has changed my keto game completely – it satisfies pasta cravings while keeping things fresh and light. The key is treating zucchini noodles differently than regular pasta – less is more when it comes to cooking time.
