A light, low-carb salad made with zucchini noodles, homemade basil pesto, and fresh toppings like cherry tomatoes, parmesan, and pine nuts. Quick to prep, perfect cold, and great for meal prep or a summer lunch.
For the zoodles:
3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
Pinch of salt
For the pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
2 garlic cloves
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup olive oil
Salt to taste
Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice
Mix-ins (optional but tasty):
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup parmesan shavings
2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
1 boiled egg or ½ cup cooked chicken (optional)
Spiralize the zucchinis. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and let sit in a colander for 10 minutes to remove extra water.
Pat the zoodles dry using a clean towel or paper towels.
In a food processor or blender, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, cheese, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth. Add lemon juice if using.
In a large bowl, mix the dry zoodles with pesto until coated.
Add your mix-ins like cherry tomatoes, cheese, pine nuts, and optional protein. Toss gently.
Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Swap pine nuts for walnuts or sunflower seeds if needed.
You can use store-bought pesto, but homemade tastes much better.
Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Add grilled shrimp or steak for a more filling meal.
Find it online: https://www.wellnesswarrior.org/keto-zoodle-pesto-pasta-salad/