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You can make squash noodles with a spiralizer by choosing the right squash, prepping it properly, and spiralizing it into noodle shapes.
It’s one of the easiest ways to turn a humble squash into a healthy, low-carb pasta alternative.
Whether you’re cutting carbs or just want to sneak more veggies into dinner, squash noodles are a game-changer.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to make squash noodles with a spiralizer, step by step.
Let’s dive in.
How to Make Squash Noodles With a Spiralizer
Making squash noodles with a spiralizer is straightforward once you know the process.
Here’s what you need to do.
1. Pick the Right Squash
Not every squash works well for spiralizing.
You want a squash that’s firm, straight, and long, so it feeds easily through the spiralizer.
Zucchini and yellow squash are the classic choices because they’re easy to find and spiralize beautifully.
Butternut squash works too, though you’ll need to peel it and cut off the bulbous end first.
Spaghetti squash is a bit different.
It naturally shreds into noodle-like strands when cooked, so you don’t always need a spiralizer for it.
If you do spiralize spaghetti squash, use the neck only for the best results.
2. Prep Your Squash
Wash your squash and pat it dry.
For zucchini and yellow squash, you don’t have to peel them.
The skin is thin and adds a nice color and texture to your squash noodles.
For butternut squash or other thick-skinned varieties, peel the skin off first.
Then cut off both ends so you have a flat surface on each side.
If your squash is wider than your spiralizer’s blade, cut it in half lengthwise so it fits.
The goal is to make your squash fit snugly into the spiralizer without wobbling.
3. Set Up Your Spiralizer
Place your spiralizer on a stable surface.
Most models have suction cups or a clamp to keep them from sliding around while you work.
Attach the blade you want.
For squash noodles, the medium or thin spiralizing blade works best.
The spaghetti-cut blade gives you long, thin strands, while the fettuccine blade creates wider ribbons.
Choose based on the texture you want in your final dish.
Place a bowl or plate underneath to catch the noodles as they come out.
4. Spiralize the Squash
Secure the squash between the spiralizer’s handle and the blade.
Push the handle forward while turning it clockwise.
The squash will spin against the blade, and noodles will start coming out the other side.
Keep turning until you’ve spiralized as much as you can.
You’ll end up with a small core piece that doesn’t get spiralized.
Don’t toss it.
Save that leftover core for soups, stir-fries, or smoothies.
Tips for Perfect Squash Noodles Every Time
Once you know how to make squash noodles with a spiralizer, a few tips will take your results from good to great.
1. Salt and Drain the Noodles
Squash noodles release a lot of water when cooked.
To avoid soggy noodles, toss them with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander for 15 to 30 minutes.
The salt draws out excess moisture.
Then pat them dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel before cooking.
This step is a game-changer for texture.
2. Don’t Overcook Them
Squash noodles cook fast.
Really fast.
A quick sauté in a hot pan for two to three minutes is usually all they need.
You want them tender but still with a bit of bite.
If you’re baking them, keep an eye on them because they can turn to mush quickly.
Nobody wants mushy squash noodles.
3. Serve Immediately
Squash noodles are best enjoyed right after cooking.
They tend to get soft and watery if they sit too long.
So plate them up and dig in while they’re fresh.
If you’re meal prepping, store the raw spiralized noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Just cook them when you’re ready to eat.
Delicious Ways to Use Your Squash Noodles
Now that you’ve made squash noodles with a spiralizer, you’ve got options.
Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them.
1. Swap Them for Pasta
Use squash noodles anywhere you’d use spaghetti or linguine.
Top them with marinara, pesto, or a creamy Alfredo sauce.
Add some protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or meatballs, and you’ve got a complete meal.
It’s a lighter take on pasta night that still hits the spot.
2. Toss Them in Stir-Fries
Squash noodles work beautifully in stir-fries.
Toss them in at the very end of cooking so they stay firm.
Add your favorite veggies, a protein, and a savory sauce.
Dinner is ready in minutes.
3. Make a Cold Salad
Raw or lightly blanched squash noodles make a refreshing cold salad.
Toss them with cherry tomatoes, olives, feta, and a lemon vinaigrette.
It’s crisp, colorful, and perfect for summer.
So, How Do You Make Squash Noodles With a Spiralizer?
You make squash noodles with a spiralizer by picking a firm squash, prepping it, securing it in the spiralizer, and turning it into noodle shapes.
From there, salting and draining the noodles keeps them from getting soggy.
And a quick cook time ensures they stay tender with a little bite.
Whether you’re topping them with marinara or tossing them into a stir-fry, squash noodles are a fun, healthy way to switch up your meals.
So grab your spiralizer and give it a go.
Your next bowl of noodles might just come from a squash.