Description
Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Sauce are the perfect low-carb alternative to pasta night. Fresh spiralized zucchini tossed in a garlicky, simmered tomato sauce brings classic Italian comfort without the heaviness. Quick to prepare, healthy, and full of flavor, it’s a weeknight staple you’ll keep coming back to.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2–3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for sautéing)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14–15 oz) crushed tomatoes or fire-roasted tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh basil or dried oregano (optional)
- Optional toppings: Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Trim and spiralize zucchini into long, even strands. Sprinkle with salt and let sit in a colander for 10–15 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until thickened. Stir in fresh herbs, if using.
- In a separate pan, add a light drizzle of olive oil. Cook zoodles for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Avoid overcooking.
- Combine zoodles with tomato sauce and toss gently to coat. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Notes
Always salt and drain zucchini before cooking to prevent sogginess. Use fire-roasted tomatoes for richer flavor or fresh tomatoes for a lighter version. For protein, add grilled chicken, ground turkey, or lentils. Store zoodles and sauce separately for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg