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Fresh Garlic Butter Zucchini Noodles with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

fresh garlic butter zucchini noodles - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring tender zucchini noodles sautéed in garlic butter with burst cherry tomatoes, delivering a fresh, flavorful, and light meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchini, spiralized
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry 3 medium zucchinis. Using a spiralizer, create noodles and set aside in a colander to drain excess moisture for about 5 minutes.
  2. Rinse 1 pint cherry tomatoes and cut each in half. Set aside.
  3. Peel and finely mince 4 garlic cloves.
  4. Place a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Let the butter melt slowly without browning (about 1-2 minutes).
  5. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and olive oil. Stir frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  6. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to burst. Gently press some with your spatula for extra juice.
  7. Drain any excess liquid from the zucchini noodles and add them to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the garlic butter and tomato juices. Cook for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender.
  8. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together once more.
  9. Remove from heat. If desired, sprinkle with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Salt the spiralized zucchini lightly and let drain before cooking to reduce sogginess. Cook zucchini noodles quickly over medium heat to keep them tender-crisp. Avoid burning garlic by stirring constantly and keeping heat moderate. Use fresh cherry tomatoes for best burst effect. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan margarine or extra olive oil and omit Parmesan or use plant-based alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini noodles, garlic butter, cherry tomatoes, quick recipe, healthy, low carb, gluten-free, vegetarian