Zucchini Noodle with Shrimp

A great alternative to pasta!

Ingredients

• 5-6 medium zucchini, trimmed
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup unsalted shelled pistachios
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup avocado oil plus 2 tablespoons, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound raw shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined, tails left on if desired

Instructions

1. 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.
2. Meanwhile, combine avocado, basil, pistachios, lemon juice, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped. Add 1/4 cup oil and process until smooth.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add shrimp; cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp is almost cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl.
4. 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.

Total time: 35 minutes.

Nutritional Information:

Servings: 4

Calories: 446

Total Carbohydrates: 17g

Dietary Fiber: 7g

Protein: 26g