Garlic parmesan zoodles with a kick

Garlic Parmesan Zoodles with a Kick is a healthy pasta alternative made from zucchini noodles, sautéed with garlic, red pepper for heat, and Parmesan cheese. This quick dish offers a burst of flavour with minimal effort, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

26 Jan 2026
Cook time 4 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 zucchini
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp garlic
1/8 tsp red pepper (spice)
1.33 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Garlic Parmesan Zoodles with a Kick is a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. This recipe combines the delicious flavors of garlic and Parmesan with a bit of heat from red pepper, all served over a base of nutrient-rich zucchini noodles. It's a quick, easy, and low-carb meal perfect for weeknight dinners or healthy lunches.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zoodles:
- Rinse the zucchini thoroughly under cold water.
- Using a spiralizer, mandoline, or a vegetable peeler, cut the zucchini into noodle-like shapes (often called "zoodles").
- Set the zoodles aside on a clean plate.

2. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Swirl the skillet so the oil evenly coats the bottom.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes:
- Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Add the 1/8 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir for another 15-20 seconds to release the spicy flavor.

4. Cook the Zoodles:
- Add the prepared zucchini noodles (zoodles) to the skillet.
- Toss them gently using tongs to combine with the garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Cook the zoodles for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still have a slight crunch. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

5. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
- Sprinkle 1.33 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese over the zoodles.
- Toss again to evenly distribute the cheese throughout the zoodles.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to slightly melt and coat the zoodles.

6. Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Transfer the Garlic Parmesan Zoodles with a Kick to serving plates.
- Optionally, garnish with additional parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot.
- Enjoy your delicious and healthy Garlic Parmesan Zoodles with a Kick!

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, Garlic Parmesan Zoodles with a Kick is a fantastic meal that offers a deliciously spicy twist to your standard pasta recipes. This dish is sure to become a staple in your healthy cooking repertoire, providing you with a flavorful and satisfying alternative to traditional carb-heavy meals.

Garlic parmesan zoodles with a kick FAQ:

How long do I cook the zoodles?

Cook the zoodles for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still have a slight crunch. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Can I substitute zucchini with another vegetable for zoodles?

Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like yellow squash or carrots. However, cooking times may vary, so check for the desired tenderness.

What pan size is best for cooking Garlic Parmesan Zoodles?

A large skillet or sauté pan is recommended to ensure even cooking and enough space for tossing the zoodles without overcrowding.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and store it?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid mushiness.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese if I want a dairy-free option?

For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or use a dairy-free cheese substitute that melts well.

Tips:

- Use a spiralizer for the zucchini.: A spiralizer will help you achieve the perfect noodle-like consistency, making your zoodles a great substitute for traditional pasta.

- Don't overcook the zoodles.: Zucchini noodles can become mushy if overcooked. Aim to cook them just until they are tender but still retain some bite, usually 2-3 minutes.

- Use fresh garlic.: Fresh garlic cloves will provide a more potent and aromatic flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.

- Adjust the heat level to taste.: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you like it spicier, feel free to add a bit more.

- Grate your own Parmesan cheese.: Freshly grated Parmesan has a better texture and deeper flavor than pre-grated cheese, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

- Serve immediately.: Zoodles are best enjoyed fresh, as they can release water and become soggy if left to stand for too long.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 72kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 3.35g
Sugar 8g
Fat 9g

Garlic parmesan zoodles with a kick