Low-Profile Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette

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

Light and refreshing zucchini noodles tossed in a zesty garlic lemon vinaigrette, perfect for a low-carb, nutrient-packed meal. This Mediterranean-inspired low-carb recipe (vegan option, gluten free), ready in about 15 minutes, pairs medium zucchinis, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 120 calories and feeds 3, 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.

Prep: 15 min Serves 3 Mediterranean cuisine 120 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Spiralize 3 medium zucchinis into noodles and place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until well combined.
  3. Step 3: Pour the garlic lemon vinaigrette over the zucchini noodles and toss gently to coat evenly.
  4. Step 4: Let the noodles marinate for 5 minutes at room temperature to soften slightly.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and sprinkle with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese if desired before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Low-Profile Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 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 Low-Profile Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette?

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 medium zucchinis from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Low-Profile Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette?

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-Profile Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). 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-Profile Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette vegan option?

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

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