This week our friends at Further Food developed a healthy recipe exclusively for one of our readers. This light twist on pasta is for Madu S., who wanted a recipe that was low in carbohydrates to help her manage diabetes.

zucchini noodles zoodles with pesto

Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, are a great option for any pasta lover looking to shed some weight and keep blood sugar in check. Zucchini is naturally low in calories and it’s a good source of vitamin C, folate, fiber, and magnesium. Zucchini noodles take just minutes to prepare with a spiralizer or mandolin, and you won’t even have to turn on your stove. Just toss the zoodles with homemade raw pesto, made with basil, olive oil, and walnuts, for a quick meal rich in flavor and important nutrients, including brain-nourishing mono-unsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids.

Photos by Caroline Chambers

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Ingredients

  • 3 zucchinis
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/3 cup walnuts
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups basil leaves (no stems)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

  1. Use a spiralizer or mandolin to cut the zucchini to the desired shape. Place the zoodles in a strainer in the sink or above a bowl. Place a plate on top of the zoodles, and use something (a bowl of water, a heavy pot) to apply pressure. The goal here is to press out some of the water in the zucchini. Let sit for 20 minutes.

  2. While your noodles are pressing, combine the remaining ingredients in a food processor or wide-base blender.

  3. Remove the weight from your zoodles and toss with the pesto.

Nutritional Information

Calories
302
Total Fat
27g
Saturated Fat
4g
Cholesterol
10mg
Sodium
416mg
Carbohydrates
9g
Dietary Fiber
3g
Sugars
5g
Protein
7g
YIELD:

4 servings