Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto (Low-Carb, Sugar-Free)

This Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto is a light, nutrient-dense, and delicious alternative to traditional pasta. The creamy avocado pesto sauce provides healthy fats, while the zucchini noodles are low in calories and high in fiber. It’s a perfect meal for weight loss, with no added sugars or refined carbs!

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Zucchini Noodles:

2 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles, or use a julienne peeler)
1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Avocado Pesto:

1 ripe avocado
1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1-2 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
1/4 cup water (or more for desired consistency)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
- Using a spiralizer, create noodles from the zucchinis. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can also use a julienne peeler or a vegetable peeler to make thin ribbons.
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the zucchini noodles to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, just until tender but still slightly crunchy. Be careful not to overcook, as zucchini releases water and can become soggy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Make the Avocado Pesto:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, fresh basil, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and nutritional yeast (if using).
- Add 1/4 cup of water and blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Assemble the Dish:
- Toss the cooked zucchini noodles with the avocado pesto sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, if desired.
Optional Garnish:
- Top with some cherry tomatoes, roasted pine nuts, or a sprinkle of hemp seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Loss:

Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: Zucchini noodles are a low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta, making this dish much lighter without sacrificing volume. Zucchini is also a great source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, which promote digestion and skin health.
Healthy Fats: The avocado and olive oil in the pesto provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which help keep you satisfied and energized. These fats also support the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
No Added Sugars: This recipe contains no refined sugars or processed sweeteners, making it a clean and healthy choice for those trying to lose weight or manage blood sugar levels.
Rich in Fiber: The zucchini noodles and avocado offer fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Fiber also stabilizes blood sugar levels, preventing cravings and energy crashes.
Simple and Easy to Make: This meal is quick to prepare, and it’s a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep. It’s also gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a versatile option for those with dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions:

Add Protein: If you’d like to boost the protein content, you can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or a handful of roasted nuts to the dish.
Serve as a Side: This dish also works well as a side to a larger meal. Pair it with a lean protein or a big salad for a full meal.
Meal Prep: The zucchini noodles and pesto sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Just keep the sauce and noodles separate until you’re ready to serve.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Calories: ~250-300 (depending on serving size)
Carbs: ~10-12g (mostly from zucchini and avocado)
Fat: ~20g (from avocado and olive oil)
Protein: ~3g (depending on the addition of protein)

This Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto is a perfect sugar-free recipe for anyone looking to lose weight without sacrificing flavor. It’s a healthy, satisfying, and nutrient-packed meal that supports your weight loss goals while keeping you full and energized. Enjoy!