Ever since zoodles hit the scene, we’ve been obsessed. Not only do they let us eat all our favorite pasta dishes in a healthier way, zucchini noodles add an extra dose of veggies in our life and we’re always down for that. At this point, though, we’ve done all the basic stuff. It’s time to step up our zoodle game, and these recipes are helping us do just that. Whether you’re spiralizing, julienning, or just slicing your zucchini reeaaally carefully, here are nine of our favorite ways to serve zoodles.
1. Pistachio Kale Pesto With Zucchini Noodles and Cherries
Talk about a tasty way to get those greens. Made with homemade pesto, antioxidant-rich cherries, lemon zest, and raw zoodles, this simple dish brings summer flavors to your mouth any time of year. Tip: Use dried cherries in place of fresh if the fruit isn’t in season.
2. Thai Peanut Zucchini Noodles
Instead of turning to takeout, try this simple recipe. With the best of Thai flavors (peanut butter, cashews, chili, and cashews) and a refreshing touch of basil, mint, and cilantro, you might just break up with delivery for good. Though the dish is awesome as is, it also tastes great with an added protein like chicken or tofu.
3. Healthy Zucchini Pasta Carbonara
The recipe creator isn’t kidding when she says the flavor will “make your heart swoon.” Though it’s full of all the amazing ingredients that make carbonara decadent (and delicious), this zoodle version is a perfect way to lighten up the rich classic. To make it even healthier, try turkey bacon or chicken sausage in place of the pancetta.
4. Zucchini Noodles With Fig, Arugula, and Pancetta
Though this recipe is relatively low carb, it’s as filling and satisfying as a dish with actual pasta. Made with fresh figs, arugula, basil, pancetta, and pecorino Romano cheese, it’ll be hard not to demolish the entire bowl. (But hey—it’s totally fine if you do.)
5. Zucchini Noodles With Pesto
This recipe will be one of the easiest meal you’ll ever make, even if you’re making pesto from scratch. If you opt for a store-bought variety instead, the prep time will be cut down to less than five minutes. Top with cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and a dash of salt and pepper.
6. Ginger Zucchini Noodle Egg Drop Soup
Any time we feel slightly sick or sneezy, few things sound better than a hot bowl of noodle soup. Now instead of turning to a can or takeout, we whip up our own batch. It’s easy, inexpensive, and perfect for leftovers, so this zoodle-y twist on a classic egg drop soup is one of our all-time faves.
7. Avocado-Basil Zucchini Noodles With Chile-Lime Shrimp and Corn
Light, healthy, and a good source of lean protein, this zoodle dish is an easy lunch or dinner option. Though avocado and corn are best during summer months, it’s easy to swap them out for whatever is in season (or whatever is left over in your fridge).
8. Kung Pao Chicken Zoodles for Two
There’s kung pao chicken, and there’s kung pao chicken zoodles. This recipe is made with the same amazing flavors of the Chinese favorite (like peanuts, scallions, and ginger), and it adds a veggie base and sticks to the homemade sauce to keep things healthier. It’s a good reminder that cooking is way more fun than dialing for takeout.
9. Zucchini Spaghetti With Lentil Marinara
Marinara sauce is delicious, but it can also get boring. Homemade lentil marinara is adelicious alternate that packs in extra protein and fiber. Spaghetti will never be the same (in a good way).
Originally published November 2014. Updated March 2017.