Lemon-Dill Zucchini Noodles with Crispy Capers

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant, low-carb pasta alternative featuring zucchini noodles tossed in a bright lemon-herb sauce with a satisfying crunch from fried capers. This mediterranean-inspired vegetarian (keto, low-carb) ready in about 18 minutes pairs zucchini, extra virgin olive oil, capers for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 120 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a low-carb week and pairs well with cauliflower rice or roasted green vegetables. 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.

★ 4.5 (11 ratings) Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 120 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1/4 cup drained capers and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 2 minutes until capers crisp and garlic is golden.
  2. Step 2: Add 4 medium spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet with 1 tbsp olive oil, tossing to coat. Cook for 3-4 minutes until zucchini is tender-crisp but not mushy, stirring frequently.
  3. Step 3: Remove from heat, stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill, zest and juice of 1 lemon, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss until noodles are evenly coated and fragrant.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Lemon-Dill Zucchini Noodles with Crispy Capers take to make?

Total time is about 18 minutes (10 min prep + 8 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 Lemon-Dill Zucchini Noodles with Crispy Capers?

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 zucchini from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Lemon-Dill Zucchini Noodles with Crispy Capers?

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 Lemon-Dill Zucchini Noodles with Crispy Capers 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 Lemon-Dill Zucchini Noodles with Crispy Capers keto?

Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, low-carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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