Spiralized Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Cream Sauce
Zucchini noodles tossed in a rich tomato basil sauce with creamy cashew cream. A low-carb alternative to pasta that’s ready in 20 minutes. This mediterranean-inspired vegetarian ready in about 20 minutes blends olive oil, minced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes 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 280 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, spiralized into noodles zucchini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 cup, halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup, for garnish fresh basil
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Step 2: Add 3 cloves minced garlic and stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn.
- Step 3: Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
- Step 4: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Step 5: Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the noodles are tender but still al dente.
- Step 6: Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh basil and serve immediately.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Spiralized Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Cream Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (15 min prep + 5 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Spiralized Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Cream 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 Spiralized Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Cream 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 Spiralized Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Cream 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.
What goes well with Spiralized Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Cream Sauce?
Mediterranean vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Absolutely wonderful.
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
- ★★★☆☆
Okay for a quick meal. I've had better vegetarian dishes though.
