Creamy Alfredo Zoodles with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: An Easy, Low-Carb Delight

As warmer weather beckons and the garden bursts with fresh produce, our culinary preferences often lean towards lighter, yet equally satisfying, dishes. If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta that doesn’t skimp on richness, this Alfredo Zoodles Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender, spiralized zucchini noodles – affectionately dubbed “zucchini spaghetti” by many – coated in a luxurious, creamy Alfredo sauce, studded with savory sun-dried tomatoes. This vibrant dish offers a perfect blend of indulgence and health, making it an ideal choice for a quick spring lunch, a light summer dinner, or a healthy weeknight meal any time of year. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, comes together in under 20 minutes, and is a fantastic way to boost your vegetable intake while keeping things deliciously low-carb.

Serve this delightful spiralized fettuccine alongside a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to savor every drop of the luscious sauce, a crisp side salad, and a generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese. For an extra touch, consider setting out toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds, or a few lemon wedges for a zesty squeeze that brightens the entire dish.

The Rise of Zucchini Noodles: A Healthy Pasta Alternative

Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, have deservedly soared in popularity as a smart and delicious alternative to traditional wheat pasta. For those mindful of carbohydrate intake, seeking gluten-free options, or simply aiming to incorporate more fresh vegetables, zoodles are a culinary revelation. They offer a mild flavor profile and a satisfying texture that easily adapts to a variety of sauces and cuisines. We absolutely adore zucchini noodle recipes in our kitchen and use them in countless creative ways.

From hearty dishes like this Spring Vegetable Minestrone Soup to refreshing raw salads such as this Asian Style Cucumber Noodle Salad or a Mediterranean Zucchini Noodle Salad, zucchini noodles prove their versatility. They also shine as flavorful sides like these Sesame Noodles or take center stage in main dishes like a Mexican Style Zucchini Skillet. The possibilities are truly endless!

Why Alfredo Sauce is the Perfect Match for Zoodles

One common challenge with zoodles can be finding a sauce that truly complements their delicate nature without making the dish feel too “healthy” or bland. This is where a classic, creamy Alfredo sauce steps in as the ideal partner. Its rich, decadent base, crafted from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, clings beautifully to the zucchini strands, delivering a comforting and deeply satisfying experience reminiscent of traditional pasta, but with a fraction of the carbs.

This recipe is designed for ease and speed, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings. You can have this mouthwatering dish on your table in under 20 minutes, effortlessly getting a generous serving of vegetables into your meal. For an even greater time-saving hack, look for pre-spiralized zucchini noodles in the produce section of your local grocery store – a convenience that can significantly cut down on prep time.

The Delight of Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Alfredo Zoodles

While optional, the addition of sun-dried tomatoes to this Alfredo Zoodles dish is highly recommended. Their concentrated, savory-sweet flavor and vibrant red hue add a wonderful depth and visual appeal that truly elevates the meal. Growing up, I always enjoyed the classic Alfredo sauce, and incorporating zoodles with sun-dried tomatoes offers a delightful, healthier twist without sacrificing the beloved flavors. The Alfredo sauce itself, requiring just a few simple ingredients, comes together remarkably fast, demonstrating that healthy eating can also be incredibly convenient and delicious. The rich cream, combined with aged Parmigiano Reggiano, creates a robust and savory foundation that pairs exquisitely with the tang of the sun-dried tomatoes.

Essential Ingredients for Your Zoodle Alfredo Masterpiece

Crafting the perfect Alfredo Zoodles relies on a handful of quality ingredients that come together to create a harmonious and flavorful dish. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Spiralized Zucchini Noodles: The star of our dish! You have the flexibility to either spiralize fresh zucchini yourself (typically one large or two small zucchinis per serving) using a spiralizer, mandoline, julienne peeler, or even a vegetable peeler, or opt for the convenience of pre-spiralized zucchini noodles found in many grocery stores. After spiralizing, it’s crucial to gently pat the zucchini noodles dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is key to preventing soggy noodles and ensures your dish maintains the desired texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows for precise control over the overall saltiness of your dish. Since Parmesan cheese is naturally salty, starting with unsalted butter ensures your Alfredo sauce is perfectly seasoned without being overly salty.
• Heavy Cream: This is the backbone of a classic, rich Alfredo sauce. Heavy cream provides that luxurious, velvety texture and decadent flavor. While you could substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a slightly lighter sauce, be aware that skim milk or most dairy alternatives will result in a significantly thinner sauce that may not achieve the desired Alfredo consistency.
• Fresh Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with an aromatic depth that is quintessential to Alfredo. While fresh garlic offers the best flavor, garlic powder can be used as a convenient substitute if fresh isn’t available.
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of dried herbs adds a robust, savory flavor to the pasta. If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, a combination of dried thyme, oregano, and basil works wonderfully as a substitute.
• Parmigiano Reggiano: This aged Parmesan cheese is integral to the authentic Alfredo flavor and texture, melting smoothly into the cream to create a rich, emulsified sauce. While Parmigiano Reggiano offers superior flavor, any good quality Parmesan cheese will yield delicious results.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These jewel-toned tomatoes are a fantastic addition, providing bursts of intense, sweet-tart, and savory flavor, along with beautiful color. To control the oil content in your sauce, it’s a good practice to drain any excess oil from oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes before chopping and adding them to the dish.

Your Guide to Crafting This Zucchini Noodles Recipe

Creating this flavorful Alfredo Zoodles dish is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time:

1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles: If you’re not using pre-spiralized zucchini, start by washing and trimming the ends of your zucchini. Then, use a vegetable spiralizer, a KitchenAid spiralizer attachment, a mandoline slicer, a julienne peeler, or even a simple vegetable peeler to create thin, noodle-like strips. Once spiralized, gently spread the zucchini noodles on paper towels and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This critical step helps prevent the noodles from becoming watery and soggy when cooked, ensuring a pleasant al dente texture.



2. Create the Creamy Alfredo Sauce: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, reduce the heat to low and add the unsalted butter and heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture slightly thickens. Next, whisk in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. Gradually and slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it completely melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.



3. Combine Zucchini Noodles and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Gently add the prepared zucchini noodles and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles are evenly coated. Simmer for just 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini noodles are heated through and just al dente – you want them tender-crisp, not mushy.
4. Optional Protein and Garnish: If adding frozen turkey meatballs, microwave them according to package directions and then gently stir them into the spiralized fettuccine. Once plated in a large bowl, garnish generously with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

Customize Your Alfredo Zoodles: Creative Modifications for Every Palate

This Alfredo Zoodles recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to easily customize it with additional ingredients to suit your taste preferences or to use up whatever fresh produce you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ways to modify your dish:

• Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutrient profile and flavor by incorporating other vegetables. Consider adding artichoke hearts, chopped fresh tomatoes, roasted red peppers, sautéed bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Spinach or kale can be wilted into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of greens.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmigiano Reggiano is traditional for Alfredo, you can explore other cheese options for different flavor profiles. Goat cheese can add a tangy creaminess, while crumbled feta cheese offers a salty, briny kick. Keep in mind that these will alter the classic Alfredo style, but can create delicious new variations.
• Boost with Nuts & Seeds: For added crunch and healthy fats, a sprinkle of nuts or seeds is a superb addition. Beyond pine nuts and slivered almonds, try toasted walnuts, pistachios, or even pumpkin seeds.
• Fresh Herbs for Fragrance: Fresh herbs always elevate a dish. Finely chopped fresh basil, parsley, oregano, or chives can be stirred in just before serving or used as a beautiful garnish to brighten the flavors.
• Incorporate More Greens: If you’re looking to sneak in extra greens, lightly sautéed spinach, arugula, or mixed greens can be folded into your Alfredo Zoodles. Add them towards the end of the cooking process so they wilt but retain some texture.
• A Touch of Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of lemon zest can add a bright, zesty counterpoint to the rich, creamy sauce. Lime juice can also be used for a slightly different citrusy note.
• Extra Creaminess with Cream Cheese: For an even more decadent and thicker sauce, a small amount of cream cheese can be whisked into the Alfredo. It adds an extra layer of richness and helps the sauce cling better to the noodles.
• Bring the Heat with Spice: If you enjoy a little warmth in your meals, a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili flakes stirred into the sauce will add a pleasant kick.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zucchini Noodles

Can Zucchini Noodles Be Reheated?

Yes, zucchini noodles can absolutely be reheated, though there’s a trick to maintaining their best texture. The key is to reheat them quickly to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a watery and mushy consistency. For best results, you can either microwave them for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or gently reheat them in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until just warmed through. A helpful tip to combat any potential excess water is to add a small handful of fresh, uncooked zucchini noodles to your leftovers before reheating. These fresh noodles will absorb some of the moisture, helping to keep the dish from becoming watery.

How Can I Add Protein to This Alfredo Zoodles Recipe?

This Alfredo Zoodles dish serves as an excellent, versatile base for incorporating your favorite protein, transforming it into a complete and even more satisfying meal. Here are some delicious ideas:

• Meatballs: Easily add a package of frozen turkey meatballs, or make your own with recipes like Pork Meatballs, Baked Turkey Meatballs, Air Fryer Meatballs, Baked Chicken Meatballs, or Crockpot Turkey Meatballs. Simply heat them through and toss them into the pasta.
• Grilled or Pan-Seared Proteins: For a leaner option, incorporate grilled chicken (sliced or shredded), succulent shrimp, tender slices of steak, or flaky salmon. Cook your chosen protein separately and then gently fold it into the Alfredo Zoodles just before serving.

More Zucchini & Healthy Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of zucchini or looking for more healthy and delicious meal ideas, be sure to check out some of these fantastic recipes:

MEDITERRANEAN ZUCCHINI BEEF SKILLET

BEEF BULGOGI WITH ZUCCHINI NOODLES

ZUCCHINI CHICKPEA QUINOA SALAD

MEDITERRANEAN ZUCCHINI BOATS

CHEESY ZUCCHINI FRITTERS

MEDITERRANEAN FISH SOUP

SPICY CHICKEN SOUP

Alfredo Zoodles Recipe

Yield:
4

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
10 minutes

Total Time:
20 minutes

Alfredo Zoodles Recipe is an easy, light and low-carb meal option. Zucchini noodles are mixed in a creamy, rich alfredo sauce along with sun-dried tomatoes. This makes a great spring lunch or dinner and can be served alongside crusty bread, a light salad and extra Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 package of Heinen’s Fresh Spiralized Zucchini Noodles
• 1/2 cup of Heinen’s Unsalted Butter
• 1 1/2 cup of Heinen’s Heavy Cream
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsps. Heinen’s Italian Seasoning
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/8 tsp. black pepper
• 2 cups of Heinen’s 24-Month Aged Parmigiano Reggiano
• 4 ounces of Heinen’s Sundried Tomatoes, chopped
• 1 package of Frozen Turkey Meatballs (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Fresh Parmesan cheese for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Toasted pine nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Turn the heat to low and add the butter and cream.
3. Simmer for 2 minutes stirring occasionally.
4. Whisk in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.
5. Slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese until it melts.
6. Add the zucchini noodles and sun-dried tomatoes in and simmer for 3-4 minutes until al dente.
7. If using, microwave the turkey meatballs and add to the spiralized fettuccine.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley, cheese and pine nuts.

Notes

You can store this in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, slowly sauté the zucchini noodles in a skillet over low heat on the stove. This gentle reheating method helps prevent the zucchini noodles from becoming mushy or watery. Alternatively, a quick microwave for 1-2 minutes works for speed, though a skillet is preferred for texture.

Feel free to stir in a handful of fresh kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an added nutritional boost and vibrant color.

For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or flaky salmon to this delightful pasta dish. See the “How Can I Add Protein to This Recipe?” section for more ideas!

Today’s post is sponsored by Heinen’s. As always, opinions are 100% my own.