Description
A fresh, light twist on classic pasta, this dish features spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a vibrant basil pesto and topped with juicy, grilled chicken. Perfect for low-carb eaters, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Ingredients
– 4 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts, toasted)
– 2 garlic cloves
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat until fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side). Allow to rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
2. **Make the Pesto:** In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. **Prepare Zucchini Noodles:** Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles. For a softer texture, lightly toss the zucchini noodles with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 5 minutes; then gently squeeze out excess moisture.
4. **Assemble the Dish:** In a large bowl, toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto until well coated. If using, add the halved cherry tomatoes.
5. **Serve:** Plate the pesto zucchini noodles and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
– For a warmer dish, lightly sauté the zucchini noodles for 1-2 minutes before tossing with the pesto.
– Use a spiralizer for best results; if unavailable, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons.
– Adjust the amount of olive oil in the pesto to reach your desired consistency.
– This dish is best enjoyed immediately to retain the crispness of the zucchini noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg