Zucchini Noodles with Butter and Parmesan
User Reviews
5
Zucchini Noodles with Butter and Parmesan
Description
This recipe uses spiralized zucchini as noodles, sautéed gently in butter to preserve their texture. Fresh minced garlic is stirred in briefly to release aroma without overpowering. Seasonings include kosher salt, black pepper, and a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Parmesan cheese adds a depth of flavor and slight creaminess, melting into the warm noodles at the end. Cooking duration is short to avoid sogginess and to maintain a tender bite similar to al dente pasta. This vegetable-based side or main provides a fresh, buttery profile.
Serve immediately to enjoy the zucchini's firmness and the melted cheese’s richness. The dish can be enhanced by adding shredded baked chicken or boiled shrimp to become a complete meal. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheat gently at reduced power to maintain texture. Avoid freezing as it may affect quality.
For best results, prepare the zucchini noodles with a spiralizer or mandoline slicer before cooking, and watch the cooking time carefully to retain their bite. Add the garlic at the end and turn off heat promptly to preserve flavor freshness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound zucchini spirals
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced, fresh
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt or ¼ teaspoon of any other salt, including Morton kosher salt, Diamond Crystal brand
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 tablespoons parmesan grated
Instructions
- Heat the butter in a large, 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.
- When melted and foamy, add the zucchini noodles. Cook, stirring often, until just tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 more minute. Turn the heat off.
- Mix in the kosher salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and parmesan.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use a spiralizer or mandoline slicer to make zucchini noodles or buy pre-spiralized zucchini.
- Do not overcook zucchini noodles; keep them tender but with a firm bite, similar to al dente pasta.
- Add garlic near the end of cooking and turn off heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
- Add cooked shredded chicken or boiled shrimp for a complete meal option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheat gently at 50% microwave power.
- Leftovers can also be eaten cold but do not freeze this dish.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 185 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0.5recipe | |
| Calories | 185kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Sodium | 474mg | 20% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.