Learn How to Cook Easy and Healthy Low-carb Zucchini Pasta with Pesto

Zucchini noodles are famous for their health benefits, and that is why you should try this recipe.

Zucchini noodles, commonly referred to as zoodles, are ideal for use as pasta or noodle replacements and highly suitable for the keto diet. Some of the many benefits of zoodles include:Some of the many benefits of zoodles include:

• Its Low on Carbs and Calories – The advantage of consuming zoodles over normal pasta is that zoodles contain very little amount of carbohydrates and calories. In terms of net carbs and calories, one serving of zucchini noodles is equal to only 2 grams of net carbs and 20 calories. Ideally suitable for consumption by people who are on a keto diet.
• High in Nutrients – Zucchini is an important vegetable that contains several vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial ingredients. It contains moderate to high levels of Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin A, magnesium and fiber content. Zoodles are far preferable even to noodles or pasta since they contain vitamins and minerals.
• Natural Anti-Inflammatory – zucchini has certain chemical compounds known as cucurbitacins that have been thought to possess anti-inflammatory agents. They contain an impressive amount of nutrients, and a higher intake of these vegetables can lower inflammation in the body.
• Contributes to Calories Burning – Zucchini noodles also contribute to the burning of calories resulting from their low carb, high fiber and high water content. This is a good strategy since zucchini noodles or zoodles are healthier than their calorie-laden counterparts, which would help one lose weight.
• Low in Carbs and Gluten free – Low carb, keto, paleo, gluten free options – Zucchini noodles are naturally low in carbs and are gluten free which makes them perfect for people who follow a low carb diet.

Adding Various Ingredients to Create Yummy Keto Pesto Sauce

Pesto is a tasty sauce that is originally from Italy and it is prepared with the help of basil leaves, olive oil, garlic, pine nuts and parmesan cheese. This is really delicious and also perfect for those on a keto diet, a great low carb sauce! Here is a simple recipe to make keto pesto at home:Here is a simple recipe to make keto pesto at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of packed fresh basil leaves
• A tablespoon of my olive oil and 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
• 1/3 cup of pine nuts
• Finely chopped 3 cloves of garlic
• Sprinkle about 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• Season with sea salt and ground black pepper to taste.

Instructions:

1.  In a blender, place the basil leaves, olive oil, pine kernels, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Continue blending until you achieve a smooth consistency and be sure to occasionally stop to scrape the sides of the blender. It must be properly mixed and consistent throughout the production process.
2.  Taste and adjust seasonings as desired, add a few drops of olive oil if preferred. The pesto can be used immediately or you can store it by covering the container with lid and refrigerate for 5-7 days.

Making Keto Zucchini Noodles

The simplest method of obtaining zucchini noodles is to use a spiralizer. This little kitchen utensil helps transform the zucchinis immediately into noodle shape. Here is the process:

What You Need:

• Zucchinis- Zucchinis should be eaten in a portion size of 1-2 medium zucchinis per portion.
• Spiralizer
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Colander or strainer

Instructions:

1. Rinse the zucchinis well under running water and then cut off both the extremities. Better to leave the skin on for more nutrients and to give a better appearance to the vegetables.
2. Attach the spiralizer to your countertop as the instruction given by the manufacturer indicates. Place the tip of the zucchini into the holes of the spiralizer with the flat end facing up. Twist the handle while applying some pressure on the food chopper’s feed tube in the form of a zucchini.
3. When the zucchini noodles are ready to be pulled through, use your hand to help guide the noodles or to pick them up in the colander.
4. All that is left to do is to place the noodles under running water in order to wash them and remove extra starch. Let them drain well before using them, in case they were soaked in a particular solution or liquid.

To put together the Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Here are you now equipped with the ingredients needed to prepare these yummy keto-friendly meals. The pesto sauce complements the zucchini noodles since it is made freshly and has a bright hue.

Ingredients:

• It also suggests that I have at least 2 portions of zucchini noodles.
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce, but depending on the choice of the group members, it can be changed a little
• To accompany the dish, grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper can be used.

Instructions:

1. Scoop zucchini noodles to the individual bowls or evenly divide on the serving plates. Place a tablespoonful of the pesto sauce on the top of each noodle.
2.  Finally, garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Best enjoyed right away.

Serving Suggestions

To increase the health and nutrient value, the pesto zoodles complement well with griddle fried chicken or grilled shrimps. Other herbs used include some basil leaves, cherry tomatoes or pine nuts as a garnish option as well. It can be eaten on its own, but is best served for lunch or as a first course with a main protein on the side.

Storing Leftovers

If you are left with pesto zucchini noodles, store them in a sealed container and put them in the refrigerator. These will stay well for 3-4 days. The pesto sauce is best used within about a week of preparation and it should be stored refrigerated.

Most Popular Ketogenic Zucchini Noodle Recipes

If you love this zoodle dish, try other keto zucchini noodles recipes, not forgetting to read about their benefits. Some other delicious options include:Some other delicious options include:

• Spaghetti Squash with Avocado Dip
• Zucchini noodles with chicken and pesto is a recipe that I would like to share with all the readers out there.
• Zoodle Bolognese
• Zoodles with Meatballs
• Zucchini lasagna with turkey and cheese
• Zoodle stir fry with shrimp or beef can be prepared by following the preparation and cooking instructions as outlined below.

I have found that there are virtually no limits to the ways that zucchini noodles can be prepared. They are perfect to be used instead of the denser carbohydrate-rich pasta and noodles for nearly all recipes. They are mild in taste and have a tender consistency that easily absorbs the flavor and taste of the sauces and ingredients combined with it.

Conclusion

Try making Keto Zucchini Noodles with Pesto as soon as possible, it is easy to make yet very tasty. They tie together rather quickly and accentuate the elements of freshness of the ingredients. But what I love about it is that it is great for a low carb ketogenic diet because it blends in so well. Fry the vegetables until they are soft, then add pesto and cook until the sauce thickens. According to your preferences, add the protein, such as the chicken or shrimp.

 This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner but also perfect for meal prep if you follow the instructions below.