This Zucchini Squash Noodles recipe is a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, perfect for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet without compromising on taste. The recipe features spiralized zucchini tossed with fresh herbs, garlic, and a light sauce, creating a dish that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a vibrant side dish, zucchini noodles are sure to impress with their fresh, light texture and versatility.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this zucchini squash noodles recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The natural sweetness of the zucchini pairs beautifully with the savory garlic and herbs, creating a dish that feels indulgent but is actually quite healthy. It’s perfect for those following a low-carb, keto, or paleo lifestyle, and can easily fit into a vegan or gluten-free diet. Plus, it’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in just a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to create uniform noodles for even cooking. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a julienne peeler will work just fine.
- Salt the zucchini noodles for about 10 minutes before cooking to draw out excess moisture, ensuring they don’t become soggy.
- For added flavor, sauté the garlic in olive oil before adding the zucchini noodles to the pan.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste, such as red pepper flakes for a kick or fresh basil for a fragrant finish.
Make Ahead Tips
You can spiralize zucchini noodles up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to prepare the sauce ahead of time, you can mix the garlic, olive oil, and herbs together and store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to add the noodles and cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
Recipe Variations
- Swap zucchini for other vegetables like carrots or yellow squash for a colorful mix.
- Add protein by incorporating grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
- For a creamy sauce, add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of ricotta cheese.
- Try different sauces, such as pesto or marinara, to switch up the flavors.
How to Serve
To serve, plate the zucchini noodles in a shallow bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat. Serve alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal. For an elegant touch, use a twirling fork to create a nest shape with the noodles.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your zucchini noodles with a crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé for a refreshing complement. A side of garlic bread or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette would also be delightful. For dessert, consider a light sorbet or fresh fruit salad to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Store any leftover zucchini noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the noodles, blanch them first and then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. To reheat, quickly sauté in a pan over medium heat for just a couple of minutes until warmed through.
Equipment Needed
- Spiralizer or julienne peeler
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board and chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit any cheese and use a plant-based oil. For a nut-free option, avoid any toppings that contain nuts. If you’re gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your sauces are also gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, fresh herbs like basil and parsley are abundant; use them generously for a fresh taste. In the fall, consider adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a heartier dish. In winter, you could also incorporate a touch of dried herbs for a more robust flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use other types of squash? Yes, yellow squash or butternut squash can also be used but may require different cooking times.
- How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy? Be sure to salt them before cooking and avoid overcooking.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the noodles and sauce ahead but combine them just before serving for the best texture.
Zucchini Squash Noodles
This Zucchini Squash Noodles recipe is a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional pasta, perfect for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or oregano), chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chili beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning to the pot. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the Fritos on the bottom.
- Spread half of the chili mixture over the Fritos, followed by a layer of cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining Fritos, chili, and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Top with your favorite garnishes.
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 172Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 2mgSodium 201mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 4g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This zucchini squash noodles recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy yet satisfying meal. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this dish not only pleases the palate but also aligns perfectly with a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every bite!
