Zucchini Noodle Pesto Recipe
This is your secret weapon lunch — a light, spiralized dish that delivers bold pesto flavor, micronutrients, and keto macro compliance in under 15 minutes.
Limited mid-day window: Cook now and claim metabolic momentum before energy dips.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Lunch
- ✅ Just 5g net carbs per serving
- ✅ High fiber + healthy fats = satiety without a crash
- ✅ Spiralized texture = pasta vibes with none of the carbs
- ✅ Fresh pesto packs antioxidant punch
- ✅ Meal prep–friendly for office or home
- ✅ Gut-friendly and bloat-free
- ✅ Replaces high-carb pasta with micronutrient-rich veg
- ✅ Tastes indulgent — feels energizing
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Squeeze of lemon juice
How to Make Zucchini Noodle Pesto
- Spiralize the zucchini into noodles. Pat dry with paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse while slowly streaming in olive oil until smooth and creamy.
- Sauté zucchini noodles in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes — just until warm.
- Toss noodles with pesto. Serve warm or chilled.
- Top with extra cheese, cracked pepper, or crushed nuts if desired.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Store in fridge up to 3 days (keep pesto separate for best texture)
- Not recommended for freezing (zoodles lose firmness)
- Reheat on stovetop or eat cold for grab-and-go fuel
Nutritionist’s Note + Pro Tips
- Science Fact: Zucchini is rich in lutein and water-soluble fiber, helping reduce inflammation and support gut health.
- Science Fact: Olive oil enhances nutrient absorption and supports cardiovascular health.
- Science Fact: Basil contains adaptogenic compounds that reduce stress impact on metabolism.
- Pro Tip: Salt the zoodles and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water before cooking.
- Pro Tip: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to boost protein macros.
- Pro Tip: Use walnut pesto for a brain-boosting omega-3 twist.
- Common Mistake: Overcooking zoodles — leads to mush. Just a light sauté.
- Common Mistake: Using store-bought pesto with added sugars and fillers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are zucchini noodles keto?
Absolutely. They're ultra-low in carbs and perfect as a pasta alternative for keto diets.
Can I make this pesto dairy-free?
Yes — swap the parmesan for nutritional yeast or skip it entirely for a vegan version.
🔥 This lunch has been prepped over 6,402 times — share yours and tag @SaltedDishes to be featured.
What Others Are Saying
“Finally — a light lunch that doesn’t leave me hungry two hours later.” – Bella F.
“Prepped this three days in a row. It's that addictive.” – Leon H.
Level Up Your Keto — One Bite at a Time
🎯 Download Your Free 7-Day Keto Meal Plan
🍫 Reward Yourself with Guilt-Free Keto Desserts
⏱️ Use Fasting to Multiply Metabolic Results