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Saucy Gochujang Zucchini Noodles Recipe

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5 from 54 reviews

This easy and flavorful Saucy Gochujang Noodles recipe combines spiralized zucchini and rice noodles tossed in a tangy and spicy gochujang-based sauce. With its vibrant Korean-inspired flavors and quick preparation, it’s a perfect light yet satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Noodles

  • 3 large zucchini, spiralized
  • 8 ounces rice noodles, cooked according to package directions; drained
  • Sliced scallions and sesame seeds for serving (optional)

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ cup gochujang
  • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Cooking Fats

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (vegan butter if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare Zucchini: Spiralize the 3 large zucchinis into noodles and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Set aside to allow them to release some moisture.
  2. Cook Rice Noodles: Cook 8 ounces of rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Mix Sauce: In a bowl, combine ¼ cup gochujang, 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 3 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic. Whisk them together until smooth and well incorporated.
  4. Thicken Sauce: Dissolve 1 tablespoon cornstarch in a small amount of water to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce mixture to help thicken it once heated.
  5. Cook Sauce: In a skillet or pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (or vegan butter if preferred). Add the sauce mixture and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Toss Noodles: Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and cooked rice noodles into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss to coat the noodles evenly without breaking the noodles apart.
  7. Finish with Sesame Oil: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil over the noodles and toss once more to incorporate the nutty flavor.
  8. Serve: Transfer the noodles to serving plates and garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • The spiralized zucchini helps keep the dish light and adds a wonderful fresh crunch.
  • Adjust gochujang amount according to your preferred spice level.
  • Ensure not to overcook the zucchini noodles, as they can become soggy quickly.
  • Hoisin sauce adds sweetness, but you may substitute with a gluten-free option if needed.
  • For a vegan version, use vegan butter and confirm that your gochujang contains no animal products.