Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Herb Sauce

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

Tender zucchini ribbons swirled into a light lemon-herb sauce. This mediterranean-inspired vegetarian (low-carb) ready in about 15 minutes blends medium zucchini, lemon, chopped fresh dill 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 95 calories and feeds 2, 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: 10 min Cook: 5 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 95 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Trim 3 medium zucchini ends and spiralize into 1/8-inch noodles using a spiralizer, then pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Step 2: Zest 1 lemon, then juice 1/2 lemon into a small bowl, adding 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill and 1 clove minced garlic.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add zucchini noodles, and cook for 3 minutes until tender but still firm, tossing frequently.
  4. Step 4: Stir in lemon zest, juice, 1/4 tsp sea salt, and 2 tbsp dill, cooking for 1 minute until the sauce emulsifies and coats the noodles.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat immediately; serve as a warm side or main dish.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Herb Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (10 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 Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Herb 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 Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Herb 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 Zucchini Noodles with Lemon-Herb Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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 Noodles with Lemon-Herb Sauce 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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