Are you looking for a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta? Zucchini noodles, also known as "zoodles," are the perfect solution! They're light, fresh, and can be paired with your favorite sauces for a delicious meal. Learn how to make these easy zucchini noodles in just a few minutes, and elevate your weeknight dinners with this tasty and nutritious pasta substitute.

Overhead image of zucchini noodles on a cream colored plate

Why You'll Love This Lovely Low Carb Side

Fast and Easy. Can be made in under 10 minutes!
Healthy. Zoodles are naturally low in carbs and calories, making them a great option for anyone looking to eat lighter or follow a keto or gluten-free diet.
Delicious. With a mild flavor, they absorb the taste of any sauce or seasoning you pair with them, making them a versatile and tasty base for countless dishes.

Zoodles are not just a trend—they're a game-changer for those looking to enjoy pasta dishes while keeping it light and fresh. Whether you're a health-conscious eater or just someone who loves a good meal, zucchini noodles are guaranteed to please.

Do Zucchini Noodles Taste Like Pasta?

Zucchini noodles, or "zoodles," don't taste exactly like traditional pasta, but they are a great substitute if you're looking for a lighter, low-carb option. Zoodles have a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a bit of crunch, especially if you don't overcook them.

Unlike pasta, which is neutral in taste, zucchini noodles have a fresh, vegetable-like taste that pairs well with sauces and seasonings. They absorb the flavors of whatever you serve them with, making them versatile and a delicious alternative in many pasta dishes.

Are Zucchini Noodles Healthy?

Yes, zucchini noodles (or zoodles) are a healthy alternative to traditional pasta. They are low in calories, carbs, and fat, making them a great option for those looking to reduce calorie or carbohydrate intake.

How Many Carbs Are In Zucchini Noodles?

Zucchini noodles (zoodles) are a great low-carb option compared to traditional pasta. For a 1-cup serving, there are approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates. Of these, about 1 gram is fiber, which brings the net carbs down to around 3 grams per cup.

Ingredients You'll Need

Zucchini- Fresh, medium-sized zucchinis are ideal for making noodles. Try to select zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes for the best texture.
Olive Oil- Adds a rich, subtle flavor to the noodles and helps prevent sticking.
Garlic- Adds a fragrant and savory taste to the dish.
Salt and Pepper- Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the zucchini.
Parmesan Cheese (optional)- Grate fresh Parmesan for an added salty, nutty flavor. It’s a great finishing touch for your zoodles.
Fresh Herbs (optional)- Basil, parsley, or thyme can add a burst of freshness to them.

How To Make Zucchini Noodles

Prepare the Zucchini. Start by washing your zucchini and trimming off both ends. Using a spiralizer, create long strands of zucchini noodles. You can also use a julienne peeler if you don’t have a spiralizer.
Cook the Zoodles. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the zoodles to the pan and toss to coat with the garlic and oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are slightly softened but still crisp.
Season. Season the zoodles with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to add extra flavor, toss in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Serve. Remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Serve them as a side dish or top them with your favorite sauce for a main meal.

Close up image of Zucchini Noodles on a plate

Tips And Tricks

Making zucchini noodles can be a breeze with these helpful tips:

Don’t Overcook. Zoodles cook very quickly! Only sauté them for 2-3 minutes to avoid them becoming mushy.
Pat Dry. Zucchini naturally holds a lot of water. After spiralizing, pat the noodles dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Use Fresh Zucchini. For the best flavor and texture, always use fresh zucchini. Avoid zucchinis that feel soft or have bruises.
Pair with Light Sauces. They work best with lighter sauces, like marinara, pesto, or olive oil-based sauces, as they won’t weigh the noodles down.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations to try:

Garlic Parmesan- Toss the cooked zucchini noodles with extra garlic, olive oil, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese for a flavorful and savory dish.
Zoodles with Pesto- Mix your zoodles with homemade or store-bought pesto for a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Spicy- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed noodles for a touch of heat. Top with marinara sauce for a spicy, satisfying meal.
Zoodles- Add sautéed shrimp to your zoodles for a quick and protein-packed dinner.

What To Eat With Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are a few ideas:

Grilled Chicken- A light and lean protein that pairs perfectly with zucchini noodles.
Tomato Basil Sauce- A simple marinara or tomato basil sauce adds a burst of flavor to zoodles without overpowering their natural taste.
Meatballs- Pair your zoodles with classic Italian meatballs for a hearty meal without the carbs.
Roasted Vegetables- Add some roasted cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and color.

How Long Do They Last?

Zucchini noodles are best eaten fresh, but you can store them for later. Keep uncooked zucchini noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

If you’ve already cooked them, it’s best to enjoy them the same day to maintain their crisp texture.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, you can freeze zucchini noodles, but their texture may become mushy once thawed. To freeze, place the uncooked zoodles in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.

When you’re ready to use them, cook the noodles straight from frozen, avoiding defrosting to minimize excess water.

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