Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)

Zucchini Noodles or zoodles have hit the mainstream and are here to stay.  Seriously, dried pasta out of a box just can’t compete (fresh pasta… well, that’s another blog entirely!).

However, the problem is because zoodles are so easy to make, they are also easy to mess up.  I’ve talked to several people who have told me that they don’t like zucchini noodles because they are too soggy.  Yikes!  Soggy noodles don’t sound very good to me either.  Hard pass.

The key when it comes to zucchini noodles is to not overdo it.  Honestly, you don’t have to do much at all other than spiralize the noodles.  You can use a real basic tool like this one, a fancy-schmancy attachment to your KitchenAid like this one, or you can find a do it all prep station like this! What I would NOT recommend is something like this cone-shaped one.  I have one, it’s what I started with, but its’ a pain to clean, and easy to cut yourself on.

Zoodles

Zucchini
Salt
Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Avocado Oil, or Coconut Oil (optional)

zoodles
  1. Spiralize your zucchini. I don’t peel mine. You could if you really wanted to or if you wanted a consistent color, but it’s extra time and you know me, I’m all about efficiency.

  2. Place noodles in colander and sprinkle with a bit of Himalayan Salt or Sea Salt. The salt will help pull some of the water out of the zucchini, giving it a softer texture.

  3. After letting the zoodles sit for a few minutes, gently squeeze noodle to remove excess moisture. If you’re okay with cold noodles, you’re done! If I’m doing a “cold salad” or if I’m making a pasta and the sauce is already warm, this is as far as I go. If you need warm “noodles,” or want them a bit softer, move to the next step.

  4. Heat oil in sauté pan over medium heat, then lightly sauté zoodles until warm.

That’s it.  Really, really. The zoodles will be a nice al dente texture and not overly mushy.  If you want the noodles a bit softer, you can sauté a bit longer, but be careful not to overdo it, the whole point is to avoid mushy noodles!

I’ll be updating this post with some of my favorite zoodle recipes as I add them, but if you have a favorite recipe- please share!  Sharing is caring as we work together to live the healthiest and happiest lives possible!