We are excited to share with you one of our favorite low-calorie recipes: Zucchini Noodles with Pesto. This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized zucchinis (makes about 4 servings)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles: Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly and trimming off the ends. Using a spiralizer, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles. If you don't have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create long, thin strips resembling noodles. Set the zucchini noodles aside.
2. Make the Pesto Sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, minced garlic, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Zucchini Noodles: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until they are just tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
4. Combine and Serve: Once the zucchini noodles are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish. Add the pesto sauce to the noodles and toss until they are evenly coated. You can also garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and pine nuts if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
Benefits of Zucchini Noodles with Pesto:
1. Low in Calories: Zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta, allowing you to enjoy a generous serving without worrying about excess calories.
2. Rich in Nutrients: Zucchinis are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and folate, which are vital for overall health and well-being.
3. Heart-Healthy Fats: The olive oil and pine nuts in the pesto sauce provide healthy fats that can help promote heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
4. Satisfying and Flavorful: Despite being low in calories, this dish is incredibly flavorful and satisfying, thanks to the aromatic basil pesto and tender zucchini noodles.
Whether you're following a calorie-restricted diet or simply looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, Zucchini Noodles with Pesto is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Give it a try and experience the joy of healthy eating without sacrificing taste!