If you’re craving a light yet incredibly satisfying dish, the Crispy Zucchini Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic, and Basil Recipe is an absolute winner. This vibrant plate combines perfectly crisp zucchini noodles with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil to deliver fresh flavors that sparkle in every bite. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a pasta-like experience without the heaviness of traditional noodles, making it both nourishing and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a clear role—from the tender crunch of spiralized zucchini to the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, and the aromatic punch of basil and garlic.
- Zucchini: Spiralized into noodles to create the base with a naturally light, crisp texture.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved for a juicy, colorful burst that balances the dish’s flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that irresistible crisp finish on the zucchini.
- Garlic: Minced to infuse the entire dish with a warm, savory aroma.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch provides just enough heat to brighten the dish without overwhelming it.
- Lemon zest and juice: Adds refreshing acidity that elevates every ingredient.
- Fresh basil leaves: Chopped to bring herbaceous notes and a vibrant color contrast.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings tuned to taste.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Optional, but highly recommended to add savory richness and depth.
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
Step 1: Spiralize the Zucchini
Start by using a spiralizer to transform your zucchinis into noodles that look just like spaghetti. This simple step is what brings the entire dish to life—it’s all about that wonderful texture and that feeling of indulging in a pasta dish without actual pasta.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet warmed over medium heat, pour in two tablespoons of good-quality olive oil. This oil will coat the zucchini noodles perfectly as they cook, helping them crisp up and preventing sogginess. The oil also creates a rich base for the garlic and tomatoes to shine.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Next, toss in the minced garlic and a teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you love a subtle kick. Let them sautée gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This is when the kitchen starts filling with an enticing aroma, promising something truly scrumptious.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Tomatoes
Halved cherry tomatoes go in now. Sauté them for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and start to release their natural juices. This adds a lovely sweetness and juiciness that melds beautifully with the crispness of the zucchini.
Step 5: Combine Zucchini Spaghetti and Season
Now, gently fold in the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Cook everything for 5 to 7 minutes, occasionally tossing so that the zucchini softens just enough but still keeps a delightfully crisp bite.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in a generous handful of freshly chopped basil. This adds vibrant color and a fresh, herbal punch that makes each mouthful sing with brightness and flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Plate the crispy zucchini spaghetti and don’t be shy about sprinkling on some grated Parmesan cheese. The salty, nutty notes of the cheese are the perfect finishing touch that elevate this dish to something truly special.
How to Serve Crispy Zucchini Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishing, fresh basil leaves, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts add lovely texture and added flavor layers. A grating of lemon zest on top brightens the plate right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to mop up juices or alongside a fresh green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent companions for something heartier.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the crispy zucchini spaghetti in individual bowls scattered with cherry tomato halves and basil leaves for a colorful presentation. Another fun idea is to place the noodles in small glass jars layered with cheese and herbs for a grab-and-go option that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The zucchini noodles will soften a bit but will still retain much of their delightful flavor. It’s best to keep the cheese separate and add it fresh when reheating.
Freezing
This recipe is not ideal for freezing since zucchini tends to release water and become mushy when thawed. It’s better enjoyed fresh or stored briefly in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the zucchini. Adding a splash of olive oil or a few drops of water can help bring back some moisture without making it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of zucchini noodles?
Absolutely, but the charm of this Crispy Zucchini Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic, and Basil Recipe is its lightness and freshness. Using zucchini keeps it gluten-free and packed with veggies, which is part of what makes this dish so delightful!
How do I keep zucchini noodles from getting soggy?
The key is cooking them just until tender-crisp and not overloading the pan with too many noodles at once. Cooking at medium heat and stirring gently helps maintain their texture.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast to retain that cheesy, umami flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild warmth, but they are completely optional. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely depending on your heat preference.
What can I substitute for fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, try fresh parsley or oregano for a different but still delightful herbal note. Dried herbs won’t have the same vibrant flavor, so fresh is best here.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful, the Crispy Zucchini Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic, and Basil Recipe is a perfect choice. It’s simple to prepare, packed with nutrients, and bursting with taste. I warmly encourage you to give it a try and watch it become a favorite go-to meal that brightens your dinner table every time.
Print
Crispy Zucchini Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Crispy Zucchini Spaghetti is a light and flavorful pasta alternative featuring spiralized zucchini noodles sautéed with garlic, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This quick and healthy dish offers a perfect balance of freshness and a subtle hint of spice, topped with zesty lemon and grated Parmesan cheese for an ultimate pasta experience without the carbs.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Spiralize Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchini into spaghetti-like noodles. Set the noodles aside to prepare for cooking.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics and vegetables.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned to release their flavors.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices, creating a flavorful base.
- Cook Zucchini Noodles: Incorporate the spiralized zucchini into the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything to combine evenly.
- Season and Cook: Sprinkle salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice over the mixture. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender yet still slightly crisp to maintain texture.
- Add Fresh Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped fresh basil to add a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.
- Serve: Plate the crispy zucchini spaghetti and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese as desired for a tangy and savory finish.
Notes
- Do not overcook the zucchini noodles to prevent them from becoming soggy—aim for tender but still crisp.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your preferred spice level.
- Grated Parmesan cheese adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- This dish is best served fresh to enjoy the optimal texture of the zucchini noodles.
- If you do not have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or buy pre-spiralized zucchini noodles at some grocery stores.
