20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (2024)

Home Recipe Index 20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes

By Brittany Mullins

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Published Feb 19, 2018, Updated Sep 27, 2023

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Love zoodles? Here are 20 healthy zucchini noodle recipes for you to try. Once spiralized this green squash makes the perfect light and tasty addition to any meal.

Zoodles, zucchini noodles, zucchini pasta. Whatever you want to call them, I love zucchini noodles so much I’ve started craving them in place of traditional pasta for most of my meals. They’re a great gluten-free and low-carb option, while also being packed with fiber and vitamins A, B and C.

However don’t be deterred by the idea of zucchini noodles being a lighter option; it just provides you with the perfect excuse to load up on as many tasty toppings as possible. Regardless of the direction you choose to go in with your zucchini noodle recipes take comfort in the fact that it’s guaranteed to be delicious.

I know spiralizing vegetables can be kind of intimidating for people to take on at first.One time back in 2015 I actually taught alittle spiralizing demo at my local Pure Barre studio to help shed some light on the process.

How to Make Zucchini Noodles

My favorite veggie to turn into noodles is zucchini! They’re the perfect texture, plus they have a mild flavor that tastes on whatever sauce you’re using… similar to regular pasta. Zucchini noodles are also super easy to make. There are a few different methods depending on what kitchen tools you on hand:

  1. Spiralizer: The easiest way, in my opinion, is to use a spiralizer to make your zucchini noodles. You can make them whatever size you like, but I prefer to use the thinner noodleblade.
  2. Vegetable peeler: If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to peel the zucchini into thin ribbons by sliding the peeler down the zucchini lengthwise.
  3. Mandoline slicer: Another option is to use a mandoline with the julienne blade. I feel like I’m always seeing people cut themselves when they use this slicer so be super careful!

If you don’t have any of these tools or just want to take a shortcut, you can buy prepared zucchini noodles from the store. Look for them in the produce section with other pre-chopped veggies/fruits.

What Spiralizer is Best?

The first thing I tell people when it comes to spiralizing is to pay attention to the equipment you’re using because some spiralizers are way better than others. I’m speaking from experience because I’ve owned over three different spiralizers.

The absolute best spiralizer on the market is theInspiralized Inspiralizer Pro.It’s has built-in blades which create four distinct noodle shapes for healthy vegetable “pastas.” A counter clamp along with suction bases keep the spiralizer steady, while the safety cover protects fingers from sharp blades. It’s become one of my go-to kitchen tools that I recommend for anyone looking to eat clean. Veggie noodles FTW!

If you’re in a hurry and want to speed it up even more you can always pick up fresh zucchini noodles from the pre-cut vegetables section near the produce aisle of most grocery stores.

The Best Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes

Zucchini Noodle Spaghetti Salad

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (2)

One Skillet Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Lo Mein

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (3)

Coconut Curry Mussels with Zucchini Noodles

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (4)

Zucchini Noodle Ramen with Tempeh

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (5)

Spicy Shrimp and Asparagus over Zucchini Noodle Pasta

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (6)

Zucchini Noodle Fettuccine with Cauliflower Alfredo

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (7)

Gena’s Carrot and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Peas

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (8)

Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (9)

Popeye Turkey Meatballs over Zucchini Noodles

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (10)

Zucchini Pasta with Beet Marinara Sauce by The Roasted Root

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (11)

One Pot Teriyaki Chicken Zucchini Noodles by Life Made Sweeter

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (12)

Zucchini Noodles with Vegan Lemon Cream Sauce by Simply Quinoa

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (13)

Almond Butter Sesame Zucchini Noodles by Paleo Running Momma

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (14)

Tomato and zucchini spaghetti with Avocado Sauce by Pinch of Yum

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (15)

Salmon Zucchini Noodle Bowl by Wicked Spatula

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (16)

Whole30 Asian Zucchini Noodle Bowlby Paleo Glutenfree Eats

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (17)

Thai Zucchini Noodles by Inspiralized

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (18)

Zucchini Noodle Frittata by Uproot Kitchen

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (19)

Mediterranean Zucchini Noodle Salad by Whole and Heavenly Oven

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (20)

Baked Eggs with Kale and Cherry Tomatoes by The Wheatless Kitchen

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (21)

Do you have a favorite healthy zucchini noodle recipe? If so, I’d love for you to share it in the comment section.

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About Brittany

Hey there, I’m Brittany, the creator of Eating Bird Food, cookbook author, health coach and mama of two littles. Here you’ll find quick and easy recipes that make healthy fun and enjoyable for you and your family!

More about Brittany

20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (27)
20 Healthy Zucchini Noodle Recipes (2024)

FAQs

How do you cook zoodles so they're not soggy? ›

You don't boil them that would make them soggy. To co*k zucchini noodles you toss them in a frying pan, with a little butter, oil or cooking spray, just long enough to heat. Add your sauce and it's done.

How healthy are zucchini noodles? ›

Zucchini is low in fat, sugar, and calories, and high in vitamin C and fiber, making it a great substitute for traditional pasta noodles. Fiber helps to regulate bowels and maintain good digestive health, and vitamin C acts as an antioxidant to protect cells.

What is healthier spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles? ›

A look into essential Vitamins & Minerals, shows that Zucchini Pasta outdoes Spaghetti Squash on every one, except for Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Calcium and Selenium. Information found from SELF's Nutrition Data calculator.

How many carbs are in 2 cups of zucchini noodles? ›

Compare two cups of pasta weighing in at 480 calories, 90 grams of carbs, and two grams of fiber with two cups of zucchini zoodles at 66 calories, twelve grams of carbs, and four grams of fiber.

Should you salt zucchini noodles before cooking? ›

Remove from heat and add to sauce or add some salt and eat as is. Note: Don't salt the zucchini before you saute it; the noodles will release more water and they'll end up limp.

Why is my zucchini so slimy when I cook it? ›

This, the outlet asserts, is due to zucchini's high water content: If it cooks too slowly, it will release its moisture before it sears, becoming soggy and sodden. Over high heat, on the other hand, zucchini becomes caramelized on the outside but retains a meaty, firm texture within.

What's the difference between zucchini noodles and zoodles? ›

Zucchini noodles can be made into different shapes, much like regular pasta. The most common way to make zoodles is to run the zucchini through a spiralizer, which makes a spaghetti-sized zoodle.

What does zucchini do for your body? ›

Zucchini is a versatile squash rich in vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. It may offer several health benefits, ranging from improved digestion to a lower risk of heart disease. Zucchini may aid your bones, thyroid, and prostate. If you're curious, try adding this soft, mild fruit to your diet today.

What are the healthiest noodles to make? ›

Try one of these healthy noodle options to add more variety and nutrients to your next meal!
  • Squash noodles. You can make your own noodles out of squash as a healthy, nutritious alternative to dried noodles from the store. ...
  • Black bean noodles. ...
  • Whole grain noodles. ...
  • Quinoa noodles. ...
  • Buckwheat noodles.

How many cups is 2 spiralized zucchini? ›

A note on serving size. We recommend spiralizing just about 1 pound of zucchini per serving (for a large, lunch or dinner-sized meal) – that equates to about two medium sized zucchinis or 2 cups, cooked.

Which squash is the healthiest? ›

Butternut Squash

Per cup, butternut also offers 3 grams of fiber to benefit gut health. Due to it's high antioxidant activity, and presence of the carotenoid zeaxanthin, research has suggested butternut squash may help protect your eyes from macular degeneration, support heart health and play a role in immune function.

What is the best vegetable spiralizer to buy? ›

Best Overall: OXO Good Grips 3-Blade Spiralizer

It was easy to assemble, the base felt sturdier, the suction grip held tighter, the crank held firmly to every sort of produce we threw at it, and it turned more smoothly and with less force.

Can diabetics eat zucchini noodles? ›

It is possible for diabetics to enjoy their favorite feel-good foods like pasta (and fries) we simply have to get a little more creative. The foods you eat should taste great, make you happy, and keep your blood sugar stable. Zucchini “zoodles” definitely fit that bill!

Are zucchini noodles better than pasta? ›

Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Low in Calories and Carbohydrates:Positive: Zucchini noodles are lower in calories and carbohydrates compared to traditional wheat-based pasta. This can be beneficial for those watching their calorie and carbohydrate intake, especially individuals with diabetes or those on low-carb diets.

How much sugar is in zucchini noodles? ›

: ZUCCHINI NOODLES
NameAmountUnit
Carbohydrate, by difference3.53g
Fiber, total dietary1.2g
Total Sugars1.18g
Calcium, Ca16mg
9 more rows

How do you firm up zoodles? ›

Tips For Avoiding Watery, Soggy Zoodles
  1. Squeeze them out before cooking – ring them out in some paper towels or a lightweight dish towel.
  2. Don't overcook them – stick to the cook times and methods above.
  3. Add them into soups and sauces at the very end – they'll get cooked just being in the warm soup or sauce.
Jun 9, 2022

How do you get water out of zucchini spirals? ›

“Sweat” the noodles in the oven for 30 minutes until the paper towels have absorbed most of the moisture that the zucchini let. Wrap the paper towels over the noodles and give them a good squeeze to extract any remaining liquid.

How do you firm up zucchini? ›

Arrange the zucchini pieces into a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. (It will stick to the pan if you don't line it first!) Freeze the zucchini for about 1 hour, until it's firm to the touch, then transfer it to an airtight container to preserve the flavor as you store it.

How do you rescue soggy noodles? ›

Heat the olive oil in a skillet and add your overcooked pasta. Gently sauté over medium heat for a few minutes until the pasta's texture has firmed up. The whole process takes less than 10 minutes and you'll know it is done when the edges of the pasta have started to crisp and light browning has begun.

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