How to Make Zucchini Noodles Even If You Don’t Have a Spiralizer

When it comes to adding veggies to your plate (and cutting carbs), zucchini and summer squash make the perfect vehicle to turn into noodles. The gluten-free pasta alternative can easily be made with a spiralizer, but there are other ways to make them with tools you probably already have at home. Zucchini noodles (aka zoodles) start with the squash, and finding the right squash starts at the market. Your best bet for making perfect zucchini noodles is to use medium (10-ounce) zucchinis that are fairly straight. This will help you make even noodles and maximize the use of the squash.

How to Make Zucchini Noodles with a Spiralizer

The key to making twirly zucchini noodles is an inexpensive kitchen gadget known as a spiralizer. A spiralizer will cut your zucchini into long pasta-like strands. You can find both tabletop spiralizers ($48, OXO) with a hand crank or handheld spiralizers.

To use, simply follow the manufacturer's instructions (no need to peel!). Trim both ends to give an even surface for anchoring the zucchini to the handle and blade, and use even pressure when turning the handle to push the zucchini through the blade.

Test Kitchen Tip: Go for a medium (10-ounce) zucchini when making zucchini noodles. The large-hole blade will yield approximately three cups of spiralized noodles from one zucchini. You get a little bit more volume if you use the small-hole blade.

Other Easy Ways to Make Zucchini Noodles by Hand

Yes, you can make zucchini noodles without a spiralizer using household kitchen tools. Here are two more easy ways to make zoodles:

• Mandoline: If you have a mandoline, set it to thinly slice lengthwise
• Vegetable peeler: Use your trusty veggie peeler to make long ribbons of zucchini. Trim the ends and run the peeler lengthwise to make zucchini noodles. We love those thick ribbons as a lasagna noodle alternative.

Zucchini Noodle Recipes

Curious about what to do with that mound of zucchini noodles? Try one of our delicious (and easy!) zucchini noodle recipes. We even have family-favorites like lasagna and pasta salad.

• Zucchini-Noodle Lasagna
• Summer Spaghetti Salad
• Zucchini Ribbons, Pasta, and Arugula
• Triple-Veggie Pasta
• Spiraled Zucchini and Crispy Potato Salad
• Spaghetti and Zucchini Noodles with Basil-Walnut Pesto (pictured above)

Once you know how to make zucchini noodles, it's time to think outside the squash. You've got a spiralizer–put it to good use! Try using to make this beet "noodle" salad