Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Peanut Sauce
Zucchini noodles tossed in a creamy, spicy peanut sauce make a fresh and satisfying low-carb meal. This asian fusion-inspired low carb (vegan, gluten free) ready in about 15 minutes blends medium zucchinis, spiralized, natural peanut butter, soy sauce (low sodium) 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
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, freshly grated
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 3 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp chopped roasted peanuts
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup natural peanut butter, 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp freshly grated ginger, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and 3 tbsp water until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Place 4 spiralized medium zucchinis in a large mixing bowl. Pour the peanut sauce over the zucchini noodles and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Let the noodles marinate for 5 minutes to soften slightly. Then divide into 4 serving bowls.
- Step 4: Garnish each bowl with 2 tbsp chopped roasted peanuts and 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Peanut Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Peanut 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 Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Peanut 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 Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Peanut 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 Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Peanut Sauce vegan?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegan, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.