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Pesto Zoodle Salad

Pesto Zoodle Salad: A Refreshing Twist on Healthy Eating

Discover a healthy and delicious Pesto Zoodle Salad, a perfect blend of flavors and wellness, making healthy eating enjoyable.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Zoodles
  • 2 medium Zucchini Spiralized
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved
For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Young leaves preferred
  • ¼ cup Pine Nuts Substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds if desired
  • 2 cloves Garlic Adjust according to taste
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese Use reduced-fat for a lighter option
  • cup Olive Oil Consider a light spray version
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup Grilled Chicken Can substitute with turkey
  • ½ cup Feta Cheese Consider vegan feta for dairy-free
  • 1 handful Arugula Can substitute with spinach

Equipment

  • Spiralizer
  • Food Processor
  • Large bowl
  • Skillet (optional for reheating)

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by washing the zucchinis and trimming the ends. Using a spiralizer, create zucchini noodles and place them in a large bowl.
  2. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped, then slowly drizzle in olive oil while processing until smooth.
  3. In the bowl with the zoodles, add halved cherry tomatoes and half a cup of the freshly prepared pesto. Gently toss everything together with tongs.
  4. If desired, fold in grilled chicken or feta cheese, and a handful of arugula. Mix gently to combine.
  5. Serve the salad on plates or a serving bowl, optionally garnishing with extra Parmesan and basil leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best texture, select firm zucchinis. Prevent excess moisture by letting the zoodles drain briefly before serving. Pesto can be made ahead and keeps for about a week.

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