Herb-Infused Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce
A light, low-carb pasta alternative featuring spiralized zucchini and a fresh tomato basil sauce, ideal for warm Colorado evenings. This american-inspired vegetarian (low carb, vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends halved Cherry tomatoes, chopped Fresh basil, minced Garlic into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. 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
- 3 medium (about 1.5 lbs), spiralized Zucchini
- 1 cup, halved Cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh basil
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and hot.
- Step 2: Add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant and golden but not browned.
- Step 3: Stir in 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, then cook for 3 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices, bubbling gently.
- Step 4: Add 3 medium spiralized zucchini noodles, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and toss for 2-3 minutes until zucchini is tender but still al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- Step 5: Remove from heat, stir in 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese, and serve immediately while the flavors are vibrant.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Herb-Infused Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (20 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Herb-Infused Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Herb-Infused Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce?
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 Herb-Infused Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce 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 Herb-Infused Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce low carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb, vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
- ★★★★☆
Almost perfect — just needed a squeeze of lemon at the end.
- ★★★★☆
Almost perfect — just needed a squeeze of lemon at the end.