Garlic & Tomato Zoodles
A vibrant and quick low-carb meal, this Garlic & Tomato Zoodles recipe features tender-crisp zucchini noodles sautéed with fragrant garlic, sweet cherry tomatoes, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It's a satisfying and light alternative to traditional pasta.
For 2 servings
Prep Zucchini: Wash and trim the ends off the zucchini. Using a spiralizer, create noodles from both zucchini. If you don't have a spiralizer, use a julienne peeler or a sharp knife to cut them into thin strips. Set aside.
Sauté Garlic: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they just begin to soften and release some of their juices.
Cook Zoodles: Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss gently with tongs for 2-4 minutes, just until they are heated through and become tender-crisp. It's crucial not to overcook them, or they will become watery and mushy.
Season and Finish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss once more to combine.
Serve: Divide the zoodles between two plates. If using, garnish with fresh chopped basil and an optional squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Avoid Watery Zoodles: To prevent soggy zoodles, don't salt them before cooking. Add salt at the very end. Also, ensure your skillet is hot enough, and cook them quickly over medium-high heat.
- 2Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If making a larger batch, cook the zoodles in two separate batches to ensure they sauté rather than steam, which can lead to a watery dish.
- 3Spiralizer Choice: A good quality spiralizer makes a huge difference. If you don't have one, a julienne peeler works well for thinner strips, or you can use a vegetable peeler to make wide ribbons.
- 4Enhance Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick, or a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan before adding tomatoes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken strips, or white beans for a more substantial meal.
Pesto ZoodlesPesto Zoodles
Toss the finished zoodles with a tablespoon or two of fresh pesto instead of just Parmesan for a richer flavor.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic, or a finely diced jalapeño for those who prefer more heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low-Carb Alternative
Zucchini noodles significantly reduce carbohydrate intake compared to traditional pasta, making it suitable for keto or low-carb diets.
Rich in Nutrients
Zucchini provides vitamins C and B6, potassium, and manganese, while tomatoes offer lycopene and vitamin C, supporting overall health.
Hydrating & Fiber-Rich
Zucchini has high water content and fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety without heavy calories.
Frequently asked questions
The key is to cook them quickly over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. Add salt at the very end, just before serving, as salt draws out moisture. Don't overcrowd the pan.
