Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce
A keto-friendly meal featuring spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce with minimal carbs. This italian-inspired keto (low-carb, keto) ready in about 35 minutes blends (spiralized into 4 cups) zucchini, olive oil, (finely diced) onion 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 200 calories and feeds 2, 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 (spiralized into 4 cups) zucchini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup (finely diced) onion
- 2 cloves (minced) garlic
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup (chopped) fresh basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup finely diced onion and sauté for 4 minutes until translucent, then add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.
- Step 2: Stir in 1 cup crushed tomatoes, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Step 3: Cook 4 cups spiralized zucchini noodles in boiling water for 2 minutes until tender-crisp, drain, and rinse under cold water. Add zucchini noodles to the sauce, tossing for 2 minutes until heated through and evenly coated.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 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 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 Low-Carb 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 Low-Carb Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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 Tomato Basil Sauce low-carb?
Yes — this recipe is tagged low-carb, keto, 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
- ★★★★☆
Nice recipe! Presentation was beautiful. Flavor was good, not great.
- ★★★★☆
Solid recipe. Not groundbreaking but definitely making it again.
- ★★★★☆
My family liked it. I personally would prefer more depth of flavor.
