Get ready to spiralize your way to a healthier plate with these 20 delicious zucchini noodle recipes! Zucchini noodles, also known as “zoodles,” have taken the culinary world by storm in recent years, and for good reason. Not only are they low in calories and rich in nutrients, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes – from classic pasta recipes to international-inspired stir-fries.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these zucchini noodle recipes have got you covered. From creamy sauces to bold flavors, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to inspire your next kitchen adventure. So grab your spiralizer and get ready to dive into the world of zucchini noodles!
Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Noodles
Elevate your pasta game with this easy and flavorful recipe that replaces traditional noodles with zucchini. This garlic parmesan zucchini noodle dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the zucchini noodles and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Peanut Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the simplicity of zucchini noodles, creating a spicy and savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup Thai peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and add them to the skillet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the zucchini noodles and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and garlic with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a healthy serving of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the lemon juice and stir to deglaze the pan.
6. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
7. Serve the shrimp over the zucchini noodles, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Avocado Zucchini Noodle Pasta
This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of zucchini noodles, all wrapped up in a light and refreshing pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz zucchini noodles (zoodles)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add diced avocado to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Combine cooked zucchini noodles with the avocado mixture in the skillet. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Chicken
A quick and healthy twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines tender chicken breast with zucchini noodles, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauces. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken breast in a pan with vegetable oil until cooked through.
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Add the cooked chicken, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes or until slightly tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of summer with a quick and easy twist on traditional pasta. By using zucchini noodles and fresh cherry tomatoes, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also low in calories and rich in nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, heat the pesto sauce over medium-high heat.
4. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they’re slightly tender.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai
Transform traditional Pad Thai into a healthier, zucchini-based dish that’s just as flavorful and satisfying. This recipe replaces noodles with spiralized zucchini, reducing carbs and calories.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Spiralize zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tamarind paste, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add zucchini noodles and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy-to-make Beef and Broccoli Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry. This recipe combines the savory taste of beef, the crunch of broccoli, and the softness of zucchini noodles for a delicious and healthy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium zucchini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the vegetable oil, garlic, broccoli, and zucchini to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir in soy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Alfredo with Mushrooms
Transform classic fettuccine alfredo into a healthier, low-carb delight with this zucchini noodle recipe. Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy flavor and meaty texture to this creamy, satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking to combine.
5. Add zucchini noodles and toss with the sauce until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Zucchini Noodle Lasagna
This recipe puts a spin on traditional lasagna by substituting zucchini noodles for pasta, resulting in a lighter and healthier take on this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spiralize zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Arrange half of the zucchini noodles in the prepared dish. Top with half of the cheese mixture, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat layers: zucchini noodles, cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
Revamp your ramen game with this innovative, low-carb twist featuring zucchini noodles and a soft-boiled egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (or to taste)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 soft-boiled egg
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water or broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add zucchini noodles and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly tender.
3. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked zucchini noodles, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the pan. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Place soft-boiled egg on top of the noodle mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Zucchini Noodle Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the simplicity of zucchini noodles. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese (if using) to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with the Mediterranean mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on the classic Italian dish. By swapping traditional spaghetti for zucchini noodles, you’ll enjoy a lighter, healthier take on the rich and creamy carbonara.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 2 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or using a spiralizer.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked zucchini noodles to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pancetta to the noodle mixture and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon with Zucchini Noodles
Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe that combines the richness of teriyaki salmon with the freshness of zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchinis into noodles.
7. In a small saucepan, heat teriyaki sauce over medium heat.
8. Add zucchini noodles to the saucepan and toss to coat.
9. Serve salmon with zucchini noodles and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Pho with Beef
A twist on the classic Vietnamese noodle soup, this recipe combines tender beef and zucchini noodles for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchinis using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create noodles.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef broth, water, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked zucchini noodles and beef back into the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Mac and Cheese
Transform your classic macaroni and cheese into a healthier, flavorful dish with the addition of zucchini noodles! This recipe combines the comfort food you know and love with the nutritional benefits of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound zucchini
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchini into noodle-like strands.
3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Add cooked macaroni and zucchini noodles to the cheese sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Zucchini Noodle Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines spicy sausage with sautéed zucchini noodles, garlic, and a hint of cumin for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the zucchinis, garlic, and cumin to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchinis are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the zucchini mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Greek Salad with Feta
This refreshing salad combines the best of Greek cuisine with the nutritional benefits of zucchini noodles, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. The tangy feta cheese adds a delightful touch to this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley to the bowl.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Lo Mein
This refreshing twist on traditional lo mein replaces noodles with zucchini noodles, creating a light and flavorful dish perfect for hot summer days or anytime you want to lighten up your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
2. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add zucchini noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Zucchini Noodle Caprese Salad
This vibrant salad brings together the flavors of Italy with a creative twist. Zucchini noodles, fresh mozzarella, and sweet tomatoes come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
2. Cook the noodles in a microwave-safe bowl for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked zucchini noodles, mozzarella cheese, and diced tomatoes.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for zucchini noodles)
Summary
Get creative with zucchini noodles! This collection of 20 delicious recipes showcases the versatility and health benefits of zoodles. From classic Italian dishes like Zucchini Noodle Alfredo with Mushrooms to international flavors like Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes, there’s something for everyone. Try Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai for a twist on the Thai classic, or go comfort food-style with Creamy Avocado Zucchini Noodle Pasta. These zucchini noodle recipes are quick, easy, and packed with nutrients – perfect for healthy eating on-the-go!
