Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles – Easy Paleo Noodle Alternative

There’s something about a big bowl of noodles that just feels like a warm, cozy hug. Whether it’s a rainy night, a busy weeknight when cooking seems like a chore, or a relaxed weekend dinner with your family, noodle dishes always bring a sense of comfort to the table. However, many traditional noodle recipes are heavy on the carbs, loaded with processed sauces, and leave you feeling weighed down. That’s exactly why I fell in love with this Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodle recipe.

These zoodles—short for zucchini noodles—are spiralized zucchini strands that mimic the texture and feel of traditional pasta but are much lighter and packed with nutrients. And when you toss them in a homemade Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles sauce that’s sweetened naturally with honey and flavored with toasted sesame oil and ghee, the result is next-level delicious. It’s the kind of dish that delivers the bold, savory flavors you’d expect from your favorite Asian takeout, but without any of the processed ingredients or MSG.

This recipe came into my life during a busy time when I was trying to eat more clean, stick to Paleo ingredients, and still enjoy satisfying meals. I didn’t want to compromise on taste, and I certainly didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen after a long workday. That’s when I started experimenting with zoodles. At first, I was skeptical—how could zucchini possibly replace noodles? But with the right sauce and quick cooking method, I was hooked after just one bite.

Now, this Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodle dish is one I make at least once a week. It’s fast, simple, and so good you’ll actually crave it. Whether you’re trying to eat low-carb, gluten-free, or just get more veggies into your meals, this recipe checks all the boxes. And the best part? It only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. So, whether you’re a kitchen pro or still learning your way around a spiralizer, you can absolutely master this dish—and love every single bite of it.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles Recipe

Easy, Quick, and Beginner-Friendly

One of the best things about this recipe is how ridiculously easy it is to make. With minimal prep work and only a few ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or those “what should I cook?” moments. If you’ve got 20 minutes and a handful of pantry staples, you’ve got dinner.

The steps are simple and straightforward, and the recipe doesn’t require any fancy cooking skills. Even if you’re totally new to spiralizing vegetables or making sauces from scratch, don’t worry—I’ve broken it all down into foolproof steps for you. And the end result? So rewarding.

Clean, Wholesome Ingredients

This dish is made entirely with clean, whole ingredients. We’re talking about fresh zucchini, garlic, coconut aminos (a soy sauce alternative that’s Paleo-friendly), a touch of natural honey, and healthy fats like ghee and avocado oil. There’s nothing artificial here, no refined sugar, and no processed oils—just real food.

The sauce has that perfect balance of sweet and savory. The honey gives a subtle caramelized sweetness, while the sesame oil and ghee create a rich, nutty base. The garlic adds a bold, aromatic punch that makes the whole dish come alive.

Family-Friendly and Adaptable

Even picky eaters tend to enjoy this dish. The sweetness of the sauce makes it kid-friendly, and the fun of eating spiralized zucchini is surprisingly appealing to little ones. You can also double or triple the recipe to serve a crowd or add a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra heartiness.

Whether you’re cooking for one or meal prepping for the whole family, these zoodles adapt beautifully. They’re satisfying without being heavy, and you can serve them warm or chilled for different takes on the same base recipe.

Health Benefits of these Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles

When it comes to nutrition, this Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodle recipe is a total win. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats while keeping carbs and calories low. Let’s break down why this recipe is such a powerhouse for your body.

Zucchini: A Low-Calorie Nutrient Bomb

Zucchini is one of those magical vegetables that’s both low in calories and high in nutrients. It’s rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. Thanks to its high water content, zucchini also helps keep you hydrated and promotes better digestion.

Because it’s naturally low in carbs, zucchini makes a great stand-in for traditional pasta. Replacing a bowl of wheat noodles with spiralized zucchini can save you hundreds of calories per serving—without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Coconut Aminos: A Healthier Soy Sauce Alternative

Traditional soy sauce can be high in sodium and often contains gluten and preservatives. Coconut aminos, on the other hand, are made from the fermented sap of coconut blossoms. They’re naturally gluten-free, lower in sodium, and Paleo-approved.

Coconut aminos add that same rich umami flavor you love in soy sauce, but in a way that’s gentler on your system and more in line with whole-food eating.

Healthy Fats from Ghee and Sesame Oil

Ghee, which is clarified butter, is rich in healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, and E. It’s lactose-free, making it easier to digest for those who are sensitive to dairy. Ghee also adds a nutty, buttery flavor that enhances the overall depth of the sauce.

Toasted sesame oil is another star ingredient. It not only provides a distinctive aroma and taste but is also rich in antioxidants and healthy fats. Used in moderation, sesame oil supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Natural Sweetness from Honey

Instead of reaching for refined sugar, this recipe uses honey to provide a touch of sweetness. Honey contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals and is less processed than white sugar. It also helps balance the savory elements of the sauce, making the flavor profile incredibly addictive.

Anti-Inflammatory and Gut-Friendly

With ingredients like garlic and ghee, this dish supports a healthy gut and reduces inflammation. Garlic is well-known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties, and when it’s sautéed gently, its natural sweetness comes through, mellowing the flavor and making it more palatable.

Together, these ingredients make a meal that’s not only delicious but also deeply nourishing. You’ll feel energized instead of sluggish after eating it, and that’s the kind of meal we all need more of in our lives.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Let’s talk logistics so you know exactly what to expect. This is one of those recipes you can pull together without a lot of effort or time, and the nutritional stats are impressive if you’re looking to stay on track with your health goals.

Total Time Needed

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 2 as a main dish or 3–4 as a side, depending on portion size. You can easily double the ingredients to feed a larger group or to have leftovers for the next day.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 2 servings)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Sugars: 10g (from natural honey and zucchini)
  • Fat: 11g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 470mg

Keep in mind that if you add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, the calorie and protein content will increase. This dish provides a balanced base that you can customize to fit your dietary needs.

Ingredients List of these Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these crave-worthy Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles. Each ingredient is carefully chosen for flavor, nutrition, and how well it complements the others.

Base Ingredients

  • 2 large zucchini, spiralized
    • Zucchini is your noodle substitute here. Choose firm, fresh zucchini for best texture.
  • 1 teaspoon avocado oil
    • This high smoke point oil is perfect for sautéing the zoodles without overpowering their natural taste.
  • Himalayan pink salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
    • A touch of salt helps draw out moisture from the zoodles and seasons the dish just right.

Sauce Ingredients

  • ¼ cup coconut aminos (or soy sauce if not following Paleo)
    • Adds deep umami flavor with less sodium and no gluten.
  • 2 tablespoons honey
    • For a touch of natural sweetness that balances the salty and savory components.
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
    • Adds incredible aroma and rich, nutty flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon ghee, melted
    • Boosts richness and creates a silky mouthfeel in the sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
    • Brings bold, aromatic depth to the dish.

Optional Garnish

  • Toasted sesame seeds
    • For crunch and visual appeal.
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
    • Brightens up the dish and adds a fresh herbaceous note.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This section is your full walkthrough—like having a friend in the kitchen showing you exactly what to do. Every step is easy to follow, and I’ll share plenty of tips along the way so that your Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles come out perfect every single time.

Step 1: Spiralize the Zucchini

Start by cutting off both ends of your zucchini. You want them to be clean and flat so they spiralize smoothly.

Use a spiralizer fitted with an ⅛-inch blade to create your zucchini noodles. This will give you thin, spaghetti-like strands that are ideal for quick cooking.

As the zucchini spiralizes, use clean kitchen scissors or a knife to cut the long strands into more manageable lengths—about 10 to 12 inches long. This helps make the noodles easier to eat and less likely to clump together in the pan.

Tip: If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or buy pre-spiralized zucchini from most grocery stores. Just be sure to check for freshness if you’re using store-bought zoodles.

Step 2: Prep the Zoodles

Place your spiralized zucchini into a colander. Sprinkle lightly with Himalayan pink salt and black pepper.

Let the zoodles sit for about 10 minutes. This step is important because zucchini is full of water. Salting them helps draw out that excess moisture so your final dish isn’t watery or mushy.

While the zoodles are resting, you can move on to making the sauce.

Tip: After 10 minutes, rinse the zoodles gently with cool water to remove excess salt, then pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels. The drier the zoodles, the better the texture when cooked.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Honey Sesame Sauce

Grab a small bowl and add the following ingredients:

  • ¼ cup coconut aminos
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon ghee, melted
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic

Whisk everything together until the honey is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth.

Set the bowl aside so it’s ready to go when your zoodles are finished cooking.

Tip: If your honey is very thick or starting to crystallize, you can microwave it for 5–10 seconds to make it easier to mix.

Step 4: Cook the Zoodles

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 teaspoon of avocado oil over medium heat. You want the pan to be hot enough to sizzle, but not smoking.

Add the zoodles to the skillet. Use tongs to toss them gently so they cook evenly without breaking. Cook for 3–4 minutes, just until the zoodles begin to soften.

Keep an eye on them—overcooking can make them soggy. You’re aiming for a texture that’s al dente: tender with a little bite.

Tip: If your pan is small, cook the zoodles in batches to avoid overcrowding. Too many at once can cause steaming instead of sautéing, which leads to watery noodles.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Once the zoodles are just beginning to soften, pour the sauce you made earlier directly into the pan.

Continue tossing the zoodles for another 1–2 minutes. The sauce should coat every strand and slightly reduce in the pan, giving it a beautiful glaze.

As the garlic cooks and the honey caramelizes slightly, you’ll notice the aroma intensify and the sauce thicken into a rich, glossy coating.

Tip: Taste a strand at this point to make sure you’re happy with the seasoning. If needed, add a pinch more salt or a splash of coconut aminos.

Step 6: Remove from Heat and Finish with Garnishes

As soon as the sauce is fully incorporated and the zoodles are al dente, take the pan off the heat.

Transfer your Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles to serving bowls or plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for crunch and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for brightness and color.

You can serve the dish right away while it’s warm, or let it cool slightly and enjoy it as a cold noodle salad later on.

Tip: If you want to add protein, this is the perfect time. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or baked tofu can be added directly to the pan at the end to soak up some of that delicious sauce.

Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles

How to Serve these Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in so many ways depending on your needs. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a side to go with your protein of choice, Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles will fit the bill.

Serve as a Main Dish

Because of the rich, flavorful sauce and the satisfying texture of the zoodles, this dish is completely filling on its own. The natural sweetness from the honey combined with the umami kick from the garlic and coconut aminos makes each bite satisfying and comforting.

If you’re enjoying it as a stand-alone meal, pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or a bowl of fruit to keep things light and fresh.

Pair with a Protein

If you’re looking to add some extra substance, this dish pairs beautifully with almost any protein:

  • Grilled chicken breast, sliced and laid on top of the zoodles
  • Sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist
  • Crispy baked tofu for a vegetarian option
  • Thin slices of beef or turkey stir-fried with garlic and green onions

These additions turn it into a hearty, well-rounded meal that’s still completely gluten-free and Paleo-friendly if you choose accordingly.

As a Side Dish

Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles can also make a stunning side dish. Serve it alongside grilled skewers, roast chicken, or even a whole baked fish. It’s light enough to complement heavier proteins but flavorful enough to stand out on its own.

You can also bring it to potlucks or gatherings. Served warm or chilled, it holds up well and tends to disappear quickly from the buffet table.

Pairing Suggestions for these Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles

Let’s talk pairings—because while Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles are amazing on their own, the right sides and drinks can take your meal to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting guests or just want to round out your plate, here are some ideas to complete the experience.

Protein Pairings

We touched on this a bit earlier, but it’s worth highlighting again. Because the zoodles are so light and flavorful, they pair especially well with:

  • Grilled chicken thighs or breasts: Marinate with a bit of garlic, coconut aminos, and ginger for a cohesive flavor.
  • Shrimp: A quick sauté with sesame oil and a splash of lime brings out the best in both dishes.
  • Tofu or tempeh: If you’re plant-based, pan-fry tofu until golden, then glaze it with the same honey sesame sauce.
  • Ground chicken or turkey: Cook it with garlic and scallions, then layer over the zoodles for a protein-rich variation.

Vegetable Side Dishes

To round out the meal with more color and texture, consider adding:

  • Steamed or roasted broccoli: A little crunch and lots of fiber make it a great side.
  • Asian-style slaw: Made with cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based dressing, it complements the sweetness of the honey glaze.
  • Stir-fried mushrooms: Shiitake or cremini mushrooms sautéed in ghee or avocado oil bring a savory umami depth.

Beverages

Since the dish is both sweet and savory, pair it with drinks that are light and refreshing:

  • Iced green tea or jasmine tea: These cleanse the palate and complement the garlic and sesame flavors.
  • Infused water with lemon or cucumber: Keeps things cool and hydrating.
  • Sparkling water with a splash of pomegranate juice: A subtle tartness that pairs nicely with honey.

Next, we’ll cover everything you need to know about storing, freezing, and reheating your zoodles to keep them tasting just as good the next day.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the many reasons to love Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles—besides their incredible flavor—is that they make fantastic leftovers. With just a little know-how, you can easily store, freeze, and reheat them while maintaining great taste and texture. Here’s how to do it the right way.

Storing Leftovers in the Refrigerator

If you have leftovers, allow the zoodles to cool completely before storing. This step is important because sealing hot food in a container traps steam, which can make the zoodles soggy over time.

Transfer the cooled zoodles and any remaining sauce into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because zucchini contains a lot of moisture, the texture may soften slightly over time, but the flavor will still be absolutely delicious.

Before serving, give the dish a quick stir. If you find that the sauce has thickened in the fridge, you can refresh it with a splash of coconut aminos or a tiny bit of warm water to loosen it up.

Reheating for Best Texture

To reheat, place the zoodles in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Toss gently for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid high heat, which can overcook the zucchini and turn it mushy.

Alternatively, you can microwave the zoodles in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round, until warm. If using this method, keep the lid slightly ajar to prevent steam from building up and softening the zoodles too much.

Adding a handful of freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or green onions after reheating can really bring the flavors back to life.

Can You Freeze Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles?

Technically, yes—but with some caveats. Zoodles have a high water content, so they tend to lose their crisp-tender texture after freezing and thawing. If texture is important to you, it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or stored short-term in the fridge.

However, if you do want to freeze them:

  • Allow the cooked zoodles to cool completely.
  • Transfer to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top freezer bag. Press out as much air as possible.
  • Label and date the container, then freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat from frozen, let the zoodles thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove. Avoid microwaving from frozen, which can turn the zucchini watery.

Pro Tip for Freezing

If you plan to make this dish ahead and freeze it, consider freezing just the sauce and spiralized raw zucchini separately. That way, you can sauté the zucchini fresh and toss it with the warmed sauce for a better texture.

By keeping these simple storage and reheating guidelines in mind, you can stretch this meal into future lunches and dinners without sacrificing taste. Now let’s dive into some common mistakes people make with zoodles—and how to avoid them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles

Even though this recipe is simple and straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls that can stand between you and the perfect bowl of Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles. The good news? They’re all easily avoidable with just a bit of awareness and a few extra tips.

Overcooking the Zoodles

This is by far the most common mistake. Zucchini cooks incredibly quickly—especially when it’s cut into thin strands. If you cook your zoodles too long, they’ll become limp, watery, and lose their lovely bite.

To avoid this, cook them for only 3–4 minutes and remove them from the heat while they still have a slight crunch. The residual heat from the pan will continue to soften them even after you’ve turned off the stove.

Skipping the Salting Step

Many people skip the step of salting the spiralized zucchini before cooking, thinking it’s unnecessary or will make the dish too salty. But this step is actually key to removing excess moisture from the zucchini.

Skipping this step often results in a watery final dish. The salt draws out water from the zucchini, and rinsing and drying them afterward ensures that your zoodles cook up beautifully.

Using Too Much Sauce

Yes, it’s tempting to drown your noodles in that sweet-savory garlic sauce, but a little really goes a long way. Over-saucing the dish not only overwhelms the flavor of the zucchini but can also make it soggy.

Instead, aim to coat the noodles lightly. You can always serve extra sauce on the side if needed.

Not Drying the Zoodles Thoroughly

Even after salting and rinsing, failing to pat the zoodles dry can make your dish waterlogged. Take the extra minute to press them gently between two layers of paper towels or use a clean dish towel.

The drier they are before hitting the pan, the better the final texture.

Crowding the Pan

Trying to cook all your zoodles in one batch when your pan is too small? That’s a fast track to steaming instead of sautéing. Zucchini releases a lot of moisture, and overcrowding traps that moisture in the pan.

Always cook in batches if necessary, and give the noodles room to move. This helps them sauté rather than steam and preserves that delicious al dente bite.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for zoodle success every time. Next, I’ll share some of my favorite pro tips to make this dish even better.

Pro Tips

Want to take your Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles from good to restaurant-quality? These tips will help you master the little details that make a big difference.

Use Fresh, Firm Zucchini

The quality of your zucchini makes a big impact. Choose zucchinis that are firm, smooth, and free of soft spots. The firmer they are, the better they’ll spiralize and hold their texture during cooking.

Smaller zucchinis are often sweeter and less watery than larger ones, which also makes them ideal for zoodles.

Toast the Sesame Seeds Yourself

If you’re using sesame seeds as a garnish, take a minute to toast them yourself in a dry skillet over medium heat. It only takes a couple of minutes and brings out a deep, nutty flavor that adds so much to the final dish.

Once they start to brown and smell fragrant, they’re ready. Be sure to shake the pan frequently to avoid burning them.

Melt the Ghee Gently

Ghee can burn if overheated, especially in the microwave. To keep its rich, buttery flavor intact, melt it gently over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave.

Melted ghee should be warm but not bubbling or smoking. This ensures it blends smoothly into your sauce without separating.

Add a Dash of Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

If you love a little heat with your sweet and savory, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right touch. You can stir them into the sauce or sprinkle them over the finished dish.

This is totally optional, but if you enjoy a spicy kick, it’s a simple way to elevate the flavor without overpowering it.

Meal Prep the Sauce in Advance

One of the best time-saving hacks is to double or triple the sauce and store it in a jar in the fridge. It will keep for up to a week and can be used to dress other dishes like stir-fried veggies, grilled meats, or even as a salad dressing.

Having this sauce on hand makes it so easy to whip up a healthy meal on a busy night without sacrificing flavor.

Next, let’s address some frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot and get even more confident in the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You’ve got questions, I’ve got answers. Whether you’re trying zoodles for the first time or just want to make sure your dish turns out perfectly, these frequently asked questions cover everything from substitutions to prep tips and storage.

Can I use soy sauce instead of coconut aminos?

Yes, absolutely. If you’re not following a Paleo or soy-free diet, low-sodium soy sauce is a great substitute for coconut aminos. Just keep in mind that soy sauce is saltier and more concentrated, so you may want to reduce the quantity slightly or adjust the amount of added salt in the recipe. Coconut aminos tend to be sweeter and less salty, which balances the honey nicely in the sauce.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. You can spiralize the zucchini, salt it, and pat it dry several hours in advance. Store the prepared zoodles in an airtight container lined with paper towels in the refrigerator. You can also mix the sauce ahead of time and keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to eat, just sauté the zoodles and toss with the pre-made sauce.

What if I don’t have a spiralizer?

No spiralizer? No problem. A julienne peeler or a mandoline with a julienne blade can give you similar noodle-like strands. You can also find pre-spiralized zucchini at most grocery stores in the produce section. Just be sure to check the freshness, as pre-cut zucchini tends to spoil more quickly.

How do I keep zoodles from being watery?

There are two key tricks: salt and dry. First, always salt your zoodles and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Then rinse and dry thoroughly with paper towels before cooking. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan and avoid overcooking them. Just a few minutes on medium heat is enough to get that perfect, slightly tender texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas make excellent additions. Just sauté them in the pan before adding the zoodles so they have time to soften and release their flavors. You can also add greens like spinach or bok choy for a nutritional boost.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The sweet and savory flavor profile is a hit with kids, especially if you cut the zoodles into shorter strands for easier eating. If your child is picky about zucchini, try mixing in a small amount of regular noodles as a transition to full zoodles. The fun spiral shape also makes it more visually appealing to little ones.

Can I make this vegan?

You sure can. Just replace the ghee with extra avocado oil or a plant-based butter, and be sure to use a vegan-friendly honey substitute like maple syrup or agave. Everything else in the dish is naturally plant-based, making it easy to adapt to a vegan diet.

What type of pan is best for cooking zoodles?

A large nonstick skillet or sauté pan is ideal. Stainless steel also works well as long as you use enough oil to prevent sticking. The key is to use a pan wide enough so the zoodles can spread out rather than steam in a pile. If your pan is too small, cook the noodles in batches.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, this dish makes a refreshing cold noodle salad. Just cook the zoodles as directed, let them cool, then refrigerate until chilled. Toss with the sauce and top with sesame seeds and cilantro right before serving. It’s perfect for hot days or meal-prepped lunches.

What can I use instead of honey?

If you’re avoiding honey, you can substitute with pure maple syrup, agave nectar, or date syrup. All of these will give a similar sweetness and pair well with the savory elements in the sauce. Just use the same amount as listed in the recipe.

Now that all your questions are answered, let’s wrap up with a final word of encouragement and a little inspiration to get cooking.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Here’s the thing about cooking healthy meals at home—it doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or time-consuming to be completely satisfying. Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles are the perfect example of that. With just a handful of real ingredients, a few minutes of prep, and a hot skillet, you can create something that feels both indulgent and nourishing at the same time.

This recipe has become one of my go-tos, not just because it’s easy, but because it tastes like something you’d order from your favorite takeout spot—only lighter, fresher, and made entirely with good-for-you ingredients. Whether you’re following a Paleo diet, cutting carbs, avoiding gluten, or just want to eat more vegetables in a fun, flavorful way, this dish checks every box.

And if you’re someone who’s just starting out in the kitchen, I want you to know this: you don’t need to be a chef to make great food. Recipes like this are meant to be approachable, forgiving, and versatile. Even if you make a few mistakes along the way, you’ll still end up with a plate of warm, garlicky noodles that you’ll be proud of.

So what are you waiting for? Grab those zucchinis, dust off your spiralizer, and make this dish tonight. You might be surprised how something so simple can be so incredibly satisfying. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out—drop a comment, share a photo, or tell me about your favorite twist on the recipe.

And don’t forget, the best meals are the ones you make your own. Whether you spice it up, toss in your favorite protein, or swap out an ingredient or two, make it work for you. Happy cooking—you’ve got this.

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Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles

Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles – Easy Paleo Noodle Alternative


  • Author: Nora Bennett
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings (main dish) 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Garlic Honey Sesame Zoodles are light, healthy, and packed with flavor. Made with spiralized zucchini, a sweet garlic sesame sauce, and ready in 20 minutes, they’re perfect for a Paleo, gluten-free, and low-carb meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large zucchini, spiralized

  • 1 tsp avocado oil

  • Himalayan pink salt and black pepper, to taste

  • ¼ cup coconut aminos (or soy sauce if not Paleo)

  • 2 tbsp honey

  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil

  • 1 tbsp ghee, melted

  • 2 tsp garlic, minced

  • Toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  • Spiralize zucchini using an ⅛-inch blade. Cut into 10–12″ strands.

  • Place zoodles in a colander, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and let sit for 10 minutes.

  • Rinse and pat zoodles dry.

  • In a small bowl, whisk coconut aminos, honey, sesame oil, ghee, and garlic.

  • Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.

  • Add zoodles and sauté for 3–4 minutes until just softened.

  • Pour sauce over zoodles. Cook 1–2 minutes until al dente.

  • Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the zoodles—they should be al dente.

  • Salting and drying them prevents sogginess.

  • Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a fuller meal.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sauté
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

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