Zucchini Noodles with Marinara Sauce (Low-Carb & Healthy)
“Make healthy and delicious zucchini noodles with marinara sauce in under 20 minutes! Low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect for a quick plant-based dinner.”
Craving pasta but want to keep it light and low-carb? These zucchini noodles with marinara sauce are the perfect healthy alternative! Also known as “zoodles,” zucchini noodles are spiralized, sautéed, and tossed in a rich tomato sauce for a delicious, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly meal that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
🥒 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Low-carb and keto-friendly
- ✅ Gluten-free and vegan
- ✅ Quick and easy—ready in 20 minutes
- ✅ Light, flavorful, and satisfying
- ✅ Great for weight loss or clean eating meals
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning
For Serving (Optional):
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan or vegan cheese
- Toasted pine nuts
📝 Tip: Use a spiralizer or a julienne peeler to make zucchini noodles.
👩🍳 How to Make Zucchini Noodles with Marinara Sauce
Step 1: Spiralize the Zucchini
Wash the zucchini and trim the ends. Use a spiralizer to create long noodles. If you don’t have one, use a julienne peeler or mandoline slicer.
Pro Tip: Pat the noodles dry with paper towels to reduce excess moisture.
Step 2: Sauté the Zoodles
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2–3 minutes, tossing gently. Don’t overcook—zoodles should be tender but not mushy.
Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to coat the zoodles. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until everything is heated through.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes or Italian herbs to taste.
Step 4: Serve & Garnish
Transfer to plates and top with your choice of garnishes—fresh basil, Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately!
🌀 Optional Add-Ins & Variations
- Add protein: grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas
- Make it creamy: stir in a spoonful of ricotta or cashew cream
- Boost the veggies: sauté with mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach
- Spicy kick: add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce
🧊 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store leftover zoodles and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet—avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess
- Prep ahead: Spiralize zucchini and store dry in fridge for up to 3 days (add sauce just before serving)
✅ Final Thoughts
This zucchini noodles with marinara sauce recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a comforting pasta-style dish without the carbs or heaviness. With just a few fresh ingredients and a spiralizer, you’ll have a light, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s as beautiful as it is nutritious.
Have you tried this recipe? Comment below with your favorite zoodle topping or twist!
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