Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (2024)

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(updated December 19, 2022)

5 from 6 votes

By Dani Spies

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Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (1)

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As you guys know by now, I have become a huge fan of zoodles (aka zucchini noodles)!

They’re an easy, delicious, low-calorie, nutrient-dense alternative to traditional pasta and if you haven’t tried them yet, I highly recommend you do.

If you want to learn more about them, you can watch my Zoodle 101, that’s where I cover all of the basics plus I share my favorite tool for making them (hint: it’s the Veggetti).

And for the of you who are ready to jump in,I wanted to be sure you hadsome ideas to get you started, so here are 3 very simple,extremely delicious zoodle recipes!

1. Zoodle Puttanesca

Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (2)

I love puttanesca sauce because it’s salty, spicy and has a lot of sass (some of my favorite traits). Plus,most of the ingredients come from the pantry so it’s a great option when you are running low on groceries.

This recipe makes enough for 2-3 servings so be sure to make enough zoodles!

Zoodle Puttanesca Recipe

  • 1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove chopped garlic
  • 3 anchovies, chopped up
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 15-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup chopped kalamata olives
  • 1 tbsp. capers
  • Sprinkle of dried oregano

Heat extra virgin olive oil in a medium sized pot then add garlic, anchovies and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté everything for 1-2 minutes or until the anchovies disintegrates and the garlic smells amazing. Next add in a 15-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, ½ cup of chopped kalamata olives, a tbsp. of capers, and a sprinkle of dried oregano.

Let it all simmer for 10-15 minutes. (This sauce will make enough for 2-3 zucchinis, so you will have leftovers if you are making a single serving.)

Serve over some zoodles and enjoy!

Nutrients for ½ recipe: Calories: 135; Total Fat: 9.6g; Saturated Fat: 0.6g; Cholesterol: 5mg; Carbohydrate: 10g; Dietary Fiber: 0.3g; Sugars: 0g; Protein: 4.8g

2. Raw Zoodle Caprese Salad

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If you are looking for something light and fresh that screams summer, this is the recipe for you! The zoodles are eaten raw so there is no cooking involved (perfect for a hot day!).

Raw Zoodle Caprese Salad Recipe

  • 1 medium to large zucchini
  • 1/3 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 ounce fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
  • 2 tbsp. fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 clove of garlic, crushed
  • 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Use your Veggetti (or your favorite tool) to make your zoodles.

Place raw uncooked zoodles in a medium sized bowl. Add in 1/3 cup diced tomatoes, 1 ounce of fresh chopped mozzarella cheese and 2 tbsp. of fresh chopped basil.

In a separate bowl combine crushed garlic, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the zoodles and gently toss. Enjoy!

Calories: 185; Total Fat: 17.2g; Saturated Fat: 3.7g; Cholesterol: 10mg; Carbohydrate: 8.5g; Dietary Fiber: 1g; Sugars: 4.3g; Protein: 1.1g

3. Creamy Avocado Pesto Zoodles

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If comfort food is your thing, then you are going to LOVE this dish. It’s super rich and creamyplus it’sloaded with healthy fats because the base of the sauce comes from avocado.

Creamy Avocado Pesto Zoodles Recipe

  • 1 medium to large zucchini
  • 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp. basil, roughly chopped
  • ½ avocado
  • 1 tbsp. Fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp. water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Use your veggetti (or whatever tool you like) to turn your zucchini into zoodles. Place in a microwave safe bowl along with a splash of water and microwave for two minutes (or until tender). Drain excess water.

Pop garlic and basil in the food processor and pulse a few times just to get it started. Add in avocado, lemon juice, water, salt and pepper. Pulse until smooth and creamy. Add extra water if the sauce seems too thick.

Pour the sauce over hot zoodles and toss until the zoodles are coated with sauce. Adjust seasonings and enjoy!!

Calories: 149; Total Fat: 12.6g; Saturated Fat: 2.5g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Carbohydrate: 10.5g; Dietary Fiber: 8g; Sugars: 0.4g; Protein: 3.2g

Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (5)

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5 from 6 votes

Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!)

Course: DIET, DINNER, LUNCH, salad + dressing, sides, VIDEO

Cuisine: American, gluten free, low carb + keto, vegetarian

Author: Dani Spies

Calories:

About Dani Spies

Dani Spies is the founder and host of Clean & Delicious; a weekly cooking show on YouTube and a healthy eating blog that celebrates real, whole foods! She takes a holistic approach to health and wellness and is loved for her approachable, down to earth style both in and out of the kitchen.

Learn MoreWork With Me

Reader Interactions

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    Comments

  1. Patricia says

    Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (6)
    Hi Dani: thanks for the zoodles 101. I had a spiralizer but I wasn’t using it but now I use it everyday. The first try was the basics and it was delicious. Second choice is the zoodles with pesto and avocado. Usually, I can’t choose so I make them both. (Just kidding!) Patricia

    Reply

  2. Ann says

    Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (7)
    Hi Dani,
    Zoodles! I’m a fan! What a great way to enjoy zucchini! Tried the simple sauté on your video and loved it!
    I used a peeler and knife to create the zoodles. Worked just fine.
    Easy, Healthy and Delicious………Thanks!

    Reply

  3. Susan, another Jersey girl says

    Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (8)
    Hey Dani! We are now huge zoodles fans. The puttanesca is our favorite. Love the contrast between the salty, spicy ingredients and the fresh zucchini. So quick to make after work!

    Today we saute’d some mild italian turkey sausage crumbles (removed from the casings) in a large non-stick skillet with a little bit of minced garlic and a small squeeze of tomato paste from a tube. Added zoodles just until heated through. Voila. De-lish. Thanks for all your great recipes.

    Reply

    • Dani says

      Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (9)
      Ok – that sounds so good! I love sausage (so much so that when I was a little girl that was my nickname!) I may have to try your recipe. Thanks for sharing:)

      Reply

  4. Tracee says

    Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (10)
    I made the Raw Zoodle Caprese Salad today. I used shredded mozzarella cheese instead of cubed which gave me cheese mixed in with every bite. It was very yummy and easy to make. I am glad I found this website, looking forward to trying other recipes!

    Reply

    • Dani says

      Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (11)
      Shredded mozzarella sounds like a really good idea!

      Reply

Zoodle Recipes (3-Ways!!) (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.

Should you salt zoodles before cooking? ›

Add zucchini noodles. Toss with tongs and let the zucchini cook for just a minute or two. 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.

What's the difference between a noodle and a zoodle? ›

Overall, zucchini noodles come out ahead in most of the nutritional categories, though pasta is higher in protein. While pasta also has a higher amount of dietary fiber, it is high in soluble fiber while zucchini is high in insoluble fiber. Both are important for a well-balanced diet.

How do you get water out of zucchini spirals? ›

Place the noodles on a cookie sheet lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt. “Sweat” the noodles in the oven for 30 minutes until the paper towels have absorbed most of the moisture that the zucchini let.

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.

Why do you soak zucchini in salt water? ›

Salt causes zucchini rounds to release excess water. This important extra step helps the zucchini to sauté rather than stew in its own juices.

Why are my zoodles bitter? ›

Remove the Seeds: The seeds and surrounding flesh can sometimes contribute to bitterness. You can scoop out the seeds before cooking. Salt and Drain: Sprinkle salt on sliced zucchini and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and bitterness.

Are zoodles healthier than pasta? ›

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 a zoodle used for? ›

Zoodles AKA zucchini noodles can be used in place of regular pasta. Zucchini noodles are low calorie, low carb, and high in fiber, which means they'll leave you feeling full without all the calories. Plus, zoodles also have a subtle taste that makes them easy to mix with just about anything-including meatballs!

Which is healthier pasta noodles or zoodles? ›

Unlike regular pasta, zucchini noodles contain fewer calories and carbs per serving, making them a healthier choice for those watching their weight or blood sugar levels. By substituting zucchini noodles in your favorite pasta dishes, you can enjoy a satisfying meal while still sticking to your health goals.

Can I freeze uncooked spiralized zucchini? ›

Please note: spiralized zucchini should not be frozen. When you go to defrost it, it will wilt and become a mushy mess.

Does zucchini last longer in the fridge or on the counter? ›

Do Store Fresh Zucchini in the Fridge. If properly stored, zucchini will last up to a week. The best way to store zucchini is in the refrigerator, preferably in the crisper drawer where humidity is kept to a minimum.

Can I freeze Spiralized zucchini noodles? ›

Drain as much water from the noodles as possible, then transfer to a towel-lined pan to dry. Zucchini noodles pack best in freezer bags. Thaw zucchini noodles in the refrigerator overnight, then drain away any excess water.

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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