Zucchini Noodles

f you're looking for easy zucchini recipes that are both healthy and delicious, these zucchini noodles are the perfect choice. Light, fresh, and ready in minutes, they make an excellent zucchini dinner or a versatile shredded zucchini side dish. Packed with flavor and simple ingredients, this is one of those zucchini dishes your family will love. Whether you're searching for quick dinner ideas or a low-carb pasta alternative, these zoodles are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

4 servings as a side

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Wash and trim the ends of the zucchinis. Use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to create zucchini noodles (zoodles).

2. Place the zoodles in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 5-10 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss gently for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp.

5. Season with black pepper and additional salt if needed. Remove from heat and toss with Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, if using.

6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 90
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Fat: 5g
This recipe makes 4 servings as a side dish or 2 servings as a main course. You can easily adjust the quantities based on your needs!

Cost per serving: $1.00

Things You'll Love About This Recipe:
Quick and easy to make in just 15 minutes
A low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta
Light, fresh, and perfect for summer meals
Customizable with your favorite sauces and toppings

Expert Tips for Best Results:
Don’t overcook the zoodles; they should be slightly firm to avoid becoming soggy
Salt the zucchini before cooking to remove excess moisture and keep them crisp
Use a spiralizer for uniform noodles, but a julienne peeler works in a pinch

Substitutions:
Swap olive oil for avocado oil or butter for a different flavor
Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free option
Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with marinara or pesto sauce for a classic pasta dish
Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein
Pair with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal

Why This Recipe Works:
Salting and drying the zucchini before cooking helps prevent watery noodles, while quick sautéing keeps them crisp and flavorful

Flavor Variations:
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean twist
Toss with a creamy Alfredo or garlic butter sauce for a richer flavor

Highlight Ingredients:
Zucchini is low in calories but rich in vitamins and fiber
Olive oil adds healthy fats and enhances flavor
Garlic brings a fragrant, savory depth to the dish

Meal Prep Ideas:
Spiralize zucchini ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days
Cooked zoodles can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days and reheated gently
Prepare different sauces in advance for quick and easy meals

Equipment List:
Spiralizer or julienne peeler
Large skillet
Colander
Paper towels

Grocery List:
Zucchinis
Olive oil
Garlic
Salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Lemon (optional)
Fresh herbs (optional)