If you need a healthier, grain-free alternative to standard pasta, you can use zucchini noodles. Pesto zoodles taste great and are quick and easy to make.
First things first: zoodles = zucchini cut in the shape of noodles. I first tried zoodles a couple years ago when the Paleo diet was all the rage. I have a couple friends who are Paleo eaters and I have to admit, I was fascinated by the idea of a healthy alternative to pasta. At first, I mixed in zoodles with my spaghetti noodles. I'm happy to say I've graduated being able to eat an entire plate of zoodles in lieu of pasta.
I keep the peel on my zoodles. It adds extra fiber, plus it gives your zoodles more bite creating a noodle-like texture, and its pretty. There are lots of different ways to cut zoodles. You can use a mandolin, a julienne slicer, or just a sharp knife if you're talented. I recently bought a spiral cutter and it was worth every penny. It turns your zoodles into these perfectly uniform 2 foot long pieces. The longer the zoodle, the more fun it is to eat. I don't cook my zoodles, I just toss in pesto or spaghetti sauce, throw on a couple of meatballs if I have them, and enjoy.
Pesto Zoodles
Ingredients
- basil pesto (click for recipe)
- small to medium sized zucchinis
Instructions
- Use preferred cutting device to cut zucchini into zoodles. Options include spiral cutter (available at Bed Bath & Beyond, Amazon, Williams Sonoma, etc.), the grater blade on your food processor, a hand grater, or a hand julienne slicer.
- In large enough bowl, toss raw zoodles with pesto sauce. Serve at room temperature or heat in sauce pan over low heat to serve warm. Serve with grated parmesan or top with meatballs, if desired.
Michele
This might sound silly, but as I just started trying to eat a lot of veggies, this sounded really good. Only one problem, the recipe is missing. Could you
tell me how you made the pesto zoodles?
Thanks,
Michele
spfoodie
Oh dear, Michele. I am so embarrassed! Some how I posted without completing the recipe portion. I'm so sorry! Thanks for letting me know. I've updated the recipe. Basically, all you need to do is cut the zucchini (with the skin on) into noodle shapes and toss in pesto. I included a link to my pesto recipe too. I've also tossed in spaghetti sauce and topped with meatballs for a filling and healthy meal. No need to heat but you can if you want to! - Krissy
Anna
This dish is so quick to make! My whole family loved the zoodles! Thanks for the recipe.
Laura Reese
This is a great alternative to noodles and carbs. I am growing zucchini I can't wait to try it.
stephanie
These pesto noodles are sooo yummy!!!
Beth Pierce
Yum! I love this recipe. It's so healthy and delicious. Thank you!