Citrus-Ginger Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes
A vibrant, light dish featuring spiralized zucchini tossed in a zesty ginger-lime dressing, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs for a refreshing meal. This mediterranean-inspired salads (vegetarian, gluten-free) ready in about 15 minutes pairs medium zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, lime juice into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 250 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 cup, halved cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp, finely grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup, toasted pumpkin seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: Spiralize 4 medium zucchinis into noodles using a spiralizer, then place in a colander to drain excess moisture for 10 minutes.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified.
- Step 3: Transfer drained zucchini noodles to a large bowl, add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and pour the dressing over, tossing gently until evenly coated.
- Step 4: Sprinkle with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro and 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds, then serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Citrus-Ginger Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes take to make?
Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Citrus-Ginger Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep medium zucchini from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Citrus-Ginger Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Citrus-Ginger Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Citrus-Ginger Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, gluten-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Nice recipe! Presentation was beautiful. Flavor was good, not great.
- ★★★★☆
Really good but took about 10 minutes longer than stated.
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
