Looking for new zucchini recipes? Try these Simple Garden Fresh Zucchini Noodles. Made with just a few ingredients, these “zoodles” cook in about five minutes for a light, healthy lunch or side.
Whether you want to reduce carbs, add more vegetables to your meals, or simply try something fresh from the garden, zucchini noodles are a tasty, satisfying option that keeps dishes light and energizing.
I plant zucchini every year and enjoy everything from zucchini muffins to classic zucchini bread, but quick sautéed zucchini noodles are a favorite for busy days. Zucchini noodles are tender with a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with bright tomatoes and a punchy vinaigrette.
Why I love these Simple Garden Fresh Zucchini Noodles
- Zucchini is low in calories, high in antioxidants, supports digestion, and provides vitamins and minerals.
- A great way to use garden zucchini and cherry tomatoes beyond bread and baking.
- Uses only a few ingredients.
- Delicious and flavorful.
- Ready in about five minutes on the stovetop.
What are zucchini noodles
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are a popular low-carb pasta alternative. You can make them by spiralizing zucchini into long strands, or by creating wide ribbons or large shreds if you don’t have a spiralizer. They’re a versatile, lighter substitute for traditional pasta.
How to make zucchini noodles
There are a few simple ways to turn zucchini into noodles depending on your tools and the texture you prefer.
- Spiralizer: Produces long, thin noodle-like strands—fast and consistent.
- Julienne peeler: A handheld peeler makes thin spaghetti-style strips by peeling lengthwise.
- Mandolin slicer: Creates wider ribbons for a fettuccine-style noodle.
Ingredients needed for this easy zucchini noodle dish
- Zucchini – one small to medium zucchini yields about two cups shredded (use a larger zucchini for more servings).
- Cherry tomatoes – halved, they soften quickly and add sweetness.
- Garlic-forward vinaigrette – a garlicky vinaigrette or marinade adds bold flavor; a little goes a long way.
- Parmesan – optional, sprinkled on top for a savory finish (omit for a vegan option).
- Red pepper flakes – optional, for a touch of heat.
How to make this Garden Fresh Zucchini Noodle Recipe
Start by rinsing the zucchini and trimming off the ends. Create about two cups of zucchini noodles using your preferred method, and slice the cherry tomatoes in half.
How to Cook Zucchini Noodles on the Stove
Heat a small sauté pan over medium-high. Add the zucchini noodles, halved cherry tomatoes, and about two tablespoons of the garlic vinaigrette.
Sauté for roughly five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and the zucchini reaches your preferred tenderness. The zucchini releases some moisture, which combines with the vinaigrette to form a light sauce.
Transfer to a bowl and finish with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Serve warm and enjoy.
Other easy vegetable recipes
Three Ingredient Salsa Zoodles
Air Fryer Veggie Stuffed Zucchini
Marinated Tomato Feta Salad
Recipe
Garden Fresh Zucchini Noodles
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini 2 cups shredded
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp garlic vinaigrette
- parmesan cheese and/or red pepper flakes optional
Equipment
- Spiralizer or mandoline (or a julienne peeler)
Method
- Rinse the zucchini and trim the ends. Create about two cups of zucchini noodles using a spiralizer, mandoline, or julienne peeler. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- In a small sauté pan over medium-high heat, add the zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, and the garlic vinaigrette.
- Sauté for about five minutes, until the tomatoes soften and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy.
What are some of your favorite recipes with zucchini? Let me know! Happy cooking!
