Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Pine Nuts

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

A quick, vibrant stir-fry featuring zucchini noodles and toasted pine nuts for a light summer dinner. This Asian-inspired summer cookout recipe (low carb), ready in about 21 minutes, pairs zucchini, pine nuts, garlic for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, 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 Cook: 6 min Serves 4 Asian cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Spiralize 3 medium zucchinis into noodles (no need to cook yet). Toast 1/4 cup pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, then set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Step 3: Add zucchini noodles and 2 tbsp soy sauce. Toss constantly for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp and lightly coated, then sprinkle with toasted pine nuts before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Pine Nuts take to make?

Total time is about 21 minutes (15 min prep + 6 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Pine Nuts?

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 zucchini from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Pine Nuts?

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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Pine Nuts 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 Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry with Pine Nuts 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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