Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Basil Tomato Sauce

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

A light and fresh Whole30 dish featuring zucchini noodles tossed in a fragrant garlic and basil tomato sauce, perfect as a side or main. This mediterranean-inspired whole30 (whole30, vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes blends halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced garlic cloves, chopped fresh basil leaves 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 150 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 150 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden but not burnt.
  2. Step 2: Add 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 1 tsp sea salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and begin to break down into a sauce.
  3. Step 3: Add 8 cups spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and gently toss with the tomato sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender but still slightly firm.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves and 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten flavors.
  5. Step 5: Drizzle remaining 1 tbsp avocado oil over the dish and toss gently before serving warm.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Basil Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Basil Tomato 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 Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Basil Tomato 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 Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Basil Tomato 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 Sautéed Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Basil Tomato Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, vegetarian, low carb, 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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