I have to admit, a spiral slicer is a fun kitchen gadget to own. Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles—zoodles—to make many favorite dishes lower in carbs. A slicer can be used for other vegetables too, but I mostly use mine for zoodles. These garlic butter zoodles with Brussels sprouts are a great example of how simple ingredients can become something special.

What? Good Brussels Sprouts?!
These garlic butter zoodles with Brussels sprouts are quick to make and full of flavor. I cook the zucchini noodles until they’re tender but still slightly crisp. Zucchini on its own is mild, so butter and garlic are key to boosting the taste, while the Brussels sprouts add a satisfying crunch. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and toasted sesame seeds finishes the dish beautifully, making it a tasty and easy side.
This recipe is flexible—try toasted pine nuts or peanuts instead of sesame seeds. Skip the Parmesan and add French-fried jalapeños for heat, or stir in a pinch or two of red pepper flakes while cooking the noodles. Cooked crumbled bacon also makes a delicious addition if you want a richer, savory result.
If you like Brussels sprouts, you might also enjoy my sautéed shredded Brussels sprouts and a spiralized radish salad for more vegetable-forward side dishes.
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Garlic Butter Zoodles with Brussels Sprouts
Equipment
- Spiral Slicer
- Saucepan
- Skillet
Ingredients
- ½ pound Brussels sprouts, tough parts of stems removed
- 3 small zucchini, cut into noodles using a spiral slicer
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
- Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the Brussels sprouts and boil 4–5 minutes, until they just start to soften.
- Drain and rinse under cool water, then cut the sprouts in half along the stem.
- Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet.
- Add the zucchini noodles and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring, until just tender.
- Let the noodles rest 3 minutes to release liquid, then drain and transfer to a plate.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet and melt. Add the garlic and Brussels sprouts and sauté about 5 minutes.
- Add the remaining butter and melt, then return the zucchini noodles to the pan and warm through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve garnished with toasted sesame seeds and freshly grated Parmesan.
Notes
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 8 g
| Protein: 3 g
| Fat: 9 g
| Saturated Fat: 6 g
| Sodium: 23 mg
| Fiber: 3 g
| Sugar: 3 g
Nutritional values are approximate.