Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Garlic and Chili Flakes

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-11 · Updated 2026-05-11

Light and fresh zucchini noodles sautéed gently with garlic and red chili flakes for a quick low-carb meal with a mild kick. This Italian-inspired low-carb recipe, ready in about 16 minutes, pairs medium zucchinis, spiralized, olive oil, garlic cloves, thinly sliced 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.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

The pan we’d use for this → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes, sauté gently for 2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden.
2. Step 2: Add 4 spiralized medium zucchinis to the skillet along with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss and cook over low heat for 3-4 minutes until zucchini noodles soften but remain slightly firm.
3. Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley. Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese if desired.