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You can make noodles out of squash by spiralizing it, and it’s one of the easiest kitchen tricks you’ll ever learn.
If you’ve been wondering how to make noodles out of squash, the answer is simpler than you think.
All you need is the right squash, a spiralizer or a simple peeler, and a few minutes of your time.
These squash noodles, often called zoodles, are a fantastic low-carb swap for traditional pasta.
In this post, we’ll walk through how to make noodles out of squash, the best squash varieties to use, and a few tips so your noodles turn out perfectly every time.
Let’s dive in.
How to Make Noodles Out of Squash The Right Way
Learning how to make noodles out of squash is mostly about picking the right tool and the right squash.
Here’s how the process works step by step.
1. Choose the Right Squash
The best squash for making noodles is firm and long, not soft and seedy.
Zucchini is the classic choice for squash noodles because it holds its shape well when cooked.
Yellow summer squash works just as nicely if you want a slightly milder flavor.
Butternut squash can also be turned into noodles, though it’s denser and needs a bit more cooking.
Avoid oversized zucchini with big watery centers, since they turn mushy fast.
2. Grab a Spiralizer or a Peeler
A spiralizer is the fastest way to make noodles out of squash.
Just lock the squash in, crank the handle, and out come perfect strands.
No spiralizer? No problem.
A julienne peeler or even a regular vegetable peeler can create ribbons that work just like squash noodles.
Even a sharp knife can do the job if you slice the squash into thin, noodle-like strips.
3. Trim and Prep the Squash
Start by washing your squash and cutting off both ends.
You don’t need to peel zucchini or yellow squash since the skin is tender and adds color to your noodles.
If you’re using butternut squash, peel it first because the skin is too tough to eat.
Cut the squash down to a size that fits your spiralizer, then spiralize away.
4. Remove Excess Moisture
This step is the secret to making noodles out of squash that don’t turn into a soggy mess.
Sprinkle your squash noodles with a little salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes.
The salt pulls out extra water, which you then pat dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Skipping this step is why many people end up with watery squash noodles.
How to Cook Squash Noodles Without Turning Them to Mush
Once your squash noodles are ready, cooking them is quick, and that’s the whole point.
Here are the best ways to cook them.
1. Sauté Them Briefly
Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Toss in your squash noodles and sauté for just 2 to 3 minutes.
They should soften slightly but still keep a bit of bite.
Any longer and your squash noodles will release water and go limp.
2. Roast Them in the Oven
Spread your noodles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast at 400°F for about 10 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Roasting gives squash noodles a slightly nutty flavor and helps them stay firm.
3. Eat Them Raw
Here’s a fun fact: you can enjoy squash noodles completely raw.
They have a nice crunch and work beautifully in cold salads with vinaigrette.
Raw squash noodles save you cooking time and keep their texture intact.
4. Avoid Boiling Them
Never boil squash noodles like regular pasta.
Boiling makes them fall apart and turns them into a watery mush.
If you want to warm them up, a quick sauté or a short steam is all you need.
Tips for Perfect Squash Noodles Every Time
Making noodles out of squash gets easier with practice, and these tips will help.
1. Pick Small to Medium Squash
Smaller squash have less water and firmer flesh, which means better noodles.
Aim for squash around 6 to 8 inches long for the best results.
2. Salt and Drain Before Cooking
We mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth repeating because it matters so much.
Salting and draining your squash noodles keeps them from getting soggy.
3. Don’t Overcook Them
Squash noodles cook fast, so stay close to the pan.
Even an extra minute can turn crisp noodles into soft, lifeless strands.
4. Pair Them With the Right Sauce
Squash noodles work great with light sauces like pesto, marinara, or garlic and olive oil.
Heavy cream sauces can weigh them down, so keep things simple.
5. Serve Immediately
Squash noodles are best eaten right after cooking.
If you let them sit, they’ll keep releasing water and lose their texture.
So, How Do You Make Noodles Out of Squash?
You make noodles out of squash by spiralizing firm squash like zucchini or yellow squash, salting them to remove moisture, and cooking them briefly.
It’s a simple process that turns a humble vegetable into a satisfying pasta alternative.
Whether you sauté, roast, or eat them raw, squash noodles are a versatile and healthy addition to your meals.
Now that you know how to make noodles out of squash, grab a zucchini and give it a try tonight.