Zucchini noodles bring a refreshing twist to your meal with their light, crisp texture and vibrant green color. In just 15 minutes of prep and a mere 3 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a dish that’s as quick as it is satisfying. These tender yet firm “zoodles” pair beautifully with bold flavors, offering a guilt-free alternative to traditional pasta.
The natural sweetness of zucchini shines through, complemented by a hint of savory richness from your favorite sauce. Whether tossed with garlic-infused olive oil or topped with a zesty tomato basil blend, every bite is a delightful balance of freshness and indulgence. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal without the fuss.
Fresh & Flavorful Zucchini Noodles Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or substitute with olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (fresh or jarred, adjust to taste)
- 3 medium zucchini, spiralized (about 4 cups of noodles)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (to taste, optional for a spicy kick)
Simple Steps to Perfect Zucchini Noodles
- Heat the oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the garlic: Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the zucchini noodles: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the spiralized zucchini. Cook for 2 minutes, tossing gently with kitchen tongs, until the noodles release water and become tender.
- Drain excess water: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the noodles to a fine mesh strainer. Shake gently to drain off as much water as possible.
- Season and serve: Return the noodles to the skillet or a serving dish. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately!
Delicious Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your zucchini noodles with a variety of sauces and toppings! Try tossing them with a light lemon garlic butter sauce (2 tbsp butter, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp garlic) for a zesty kick. For a creamy option, mix in pesto or a drizzle of alfredo sauce. Top with toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Zucchini noodles are incredibly versatile! Serve them as a light main dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein. They also make a great side dish alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, pair them with a slice of crusty bread or a bowl of soup.
Quick Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover zucchini noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or enjoy them cold as a refreshing salad. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the noodles too watery.
Time-Saving Tricks for Busy Cooks
Save time by spiralizing your zucchini ahead of time and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also use pre-spiralized zucchini noodles from the grocery store for an even quicker meal. Keep your skillet hot and ready to go to minimize cooking time!
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch things up by using yellow squash or a mix of zucchini and squash for colorful noodles. Add a handful of cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, or spinach during cooking for extra veggies. For a spicy twist, double the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce!
Zucchini Noodles
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 3 medium zucchini spiralized
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Crushed red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30-60 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the zucchini noodles. Cook for about 2 minutes, constantly tossing gently with kitchen tongs, until the water releases from the zucchini and it begins to feel tender.
- Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the noodles to a fine mesh strainer to drain off as much of the water as possible. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, to taste. Serve garnished with Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper.