Stir-Fried Zucchini Noodles with Italian Sausage and Cherry Tomatoes

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

A vibrant, low-carb meal where tender zucchini noodles mingle with savory sausage and sweet tomatoes. This italian-inspired keto (low-carb) ready in about 30 minutes pairs medium zucchini, Italian sausage, cherry tomatoes for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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: 15 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Spiralize 4 medium zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 lb Italian sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking into small pieces until browned.
  3. Step 3: Add 1/2 cup thinly sliced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
  4. Step 4: Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until they begin to burst.
  6. Step 6: Add spiralized zucchini noodles and 1 tbsp olive oil, tossing to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes until zucchini is tender but still firm.
  7. Step 7: Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper, then garnish with 2 tbsp fresh basil.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Zucchini Noodles with Italian Sausage and Cherry Tomatoes take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 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 Stir-Fried Zucchini Noodles with Italian Sausage and Cherry Tomatoes?

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 zucchini from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Stir-Fried Zucchini Noodles with Italian Sausage and Cherry Tomatoes?

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 Stir-Fried Zucchini Noodles with Italian Sausage and Cherry Tomatoes 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 Stir-Fried Zucchini Noodles with Italian Sausage and Cherry Tomatoes low-carb?

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

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