Zucchini are easy to find and are a great fresh vegetable for summer Ever try zucchini noodles, or zoodles, before? Well, this is your chance! This recipe also includes shrimp, which are low in calories but high in nutrition, including antioxidants and omega-3s. Research shows that eating seafood regularly can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Ingredients:
5-6 medium zucchini (2 1/4-2 1/2 pounds total), trimmed
¾ teaspoon salt, divided
1 ripe avocado
1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
¼ cup unsalted shelled pistachios
2 tablespoons lemon juice
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil plus 2 tablespoons, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound raw shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined, tails left on if desired
1-2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
Using a spiral vegetable slicer or a vegetable peeler, cut zucchini lengthwise into long, thin strands or strips. Stop when you reach the seeds in the middle (seeds make the noodles fall apart). Place the zucchini “noodles” in a colander and toss with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Let drain for 15 to 30 minutes, then gently squeeze to remove any excess water.
Meanwhile, combine avocado, basil, pistachios, lemon juice, pepper and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped. Add 1/4 cup oil and process until smooth.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add shrimp and sprinkle with Old Bay; cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp is almost cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl.
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan. Add the drained zucchini noodles and gently toss until hot, about 3 minutes. Transfer to the bowl, add the pesto and gently toss to combine.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 3/4 cups
Per Serving: 446 calories; 33.2 g total fat; 4.7 g saturated fat; 159 mg cholesterol; 713 mg sodium; 1271 mg potassium; 15.8 g carbohydrates; 6.6 g fiber; 7 g sugar; 25.9 g protein; 1144 IU vitamin A; 55 mg vitamin C; 112 mcg folate; 141 mg calcium; 2 mg iron; 110 mg magnesium
Printable recipe available at: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/257004/zucchini-noodles-with-avocado-pesto-shrimp/
