🍋 Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta with Dill Recipe | Healthy Low-Carb Dinner
A refreshing Zucchini pasta recipe that feels like sunshine on a plate — light, healthy, and full of love, just like the meals my grandfather made.
I’ve shared a few healthy pasta recipes before, but this one is a favorite of mine and my wife. We sometimes enjoy this Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta with Fresh Dill with wine when we’re celebrating a special occasion. Unlike heavy cream-based pasta, this dish uses zucchini noodles (zoodles) as a low-carb pasta alternative—making it perfect for anyone following a keto diet, gluten-free lifestyle, Weight Watchers plan, or the Mediterranean diet.
Zoodles are not just trendy—they’re a high-protein vegetarian-friendly option, rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Paired with the zesty brightness of lemon, freshly cracked black pepper, and the soothing herbal aroma of dill, this low carb dinner recipe transforms into a restaurant-quality pasta dinner at home. Whether it’s a healthy lunch, a budget-friendly gluten-free dinner idea, or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Food has always been more than fuel—it’s memory, love, and comfort. You may remember that I shared a corn chowder recipe with you earlier, which was a recipe my grandfather taught me, and I got very emotional about sharing it. Today’s recipe gives me that same comfort, not just because of its simplicity and flavor, but because my wife and I spent some very special moments with this Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta.
🍋 Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta with Fresh Dill Recipe
There’s something so comforting about food that feels both refreshing and wholesome. This Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta with Dill is a healthy dinner recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the subtle bite of black pepper, and the fresh aroma of dill. It’s a gluten-free pasta alternative made with zucchini noodles (zoodles), perfect for anyone following a low-carb diet, Weight Watchers plan, or the Mediterranean diet.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (healthy fats)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tsp sea salt (to taste)
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini noodles – Use a spiralizer or julienne peeler to make fresh zoodles. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Heat the pan – In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add zoodles – Toss in the zucchini noodles and cook for 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook (they should stay al dente).
- Flavor boost – Add lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Finish with dill – Remove from heat and toss in fresh dill and Parmesan cheese.
- Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with chili flakes or extra dill. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Notes
- Don’t overcook zucchini noodles—they release water quickly.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or salmon for a satisfying complete meal.
- For meal prep, keep sauce and zoodles separate, then toss before serving.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best flavor.
Variations
- High-Protein Zucchini Pasta → Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Creamy Lemon Dill Zoodles → Mix in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or light cream cheese.
- Vegan Zucchini Pasta Recipe → Skip Parmesan and add nutritional yeast.
- Low-Calorie Summer Pasta → Add cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers.
🌿 Healthy Guide
- Low in carbs & gluten-free: Zucchini noodles are a perfect keto-friendly pasta alternative.
- Rich in antioxidants: Fresh dill and lemon add vitamin C, supporting immunity.
- Balanced diet recipe: Can be adapted to Weight Watchers, diabetic-friendly, or Mediterranean diet.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
2Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 354Total Fat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 753mgCarbohydrates: 47gFiber: 5gSugar: 19gProtein: 8g
Related: Mediterranean Grain Bowls
About This Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta with Dill
⏱️ 20-Minute, Weeknight-Easy
From prep to plate in under 20 minutes—perfect for busy families, meal prep, and quick low-carb dinners. Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
🥗 Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, WW-Friendly
We know zoodle is a gluten free pasta. Zoodles deliver a keto-friendly, Weight Watchers–friendly pasta vibe with fewer carbs and calories—great for weight loss meals and diabetes-friendly recipes.
🌿 Mediterranean Diet Flavor Profile
Bright lemon, fresh dill, EVOO, and cracked pepper fit the Mediterranean diet approach to heart-smart eating. Learn more from this high-authority resource: Mayo Clinic – Mediterranean Diet Guide.
💪 Customizable Protein Boost
Make it a high-protein dinner with grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, chickpeas, or tofu—balanced macros for fitness, muscle recovery, and satiety.
🍋 Big Flavor, Clean Ingredients
Lemon zest + cracked pepper + fresh dill = restaurant-level flavor with budget-friendly, clean ingredients. No heavy cream required.
Related: White Bean Caprese Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients (for 2 servings)
-
✓
2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into zoodles gluten-free pasta alternative
low-calorie base for a low-carb dinner. -
✓
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Heart-healthy fat aligned with the Mediterranean diet. -
✓
2 cloves garlic, minced
Aromatics for classic Italian-inspired flavor. -
✓
1 large lemon, zest + juice detox & immunity
Bright acidity to balance richness; boosts citrus aroma. -
✓
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Signature lemon-pepper kick; grind fresh for best results. - ✓ ½ tsp sea salt, or to taste
-
✓
¼ cup fresh dill, finely chopped anti-inflammatory
Herbaceous lift that defines this lemon dill pasta. -
✓
2 tbsp Parmesan, grated (optional)
Umami depth; swap with nutritional yeast for a vegan zucchini pasta. -
✓
½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
Heat level for those who like a little spice.
Related: Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
Step-by-Step: Make Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta with Fresh Dill (Quick, Healthy, Budget-Friendly)
1. Spiralize the Zucchini (Prep the Zoodles)
Wash and trim 2 medium zucchinis. Spiralize with a handheld or tabletop spiralizer into firm zucchini noodles (aka zoodles). Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to reduce moisture—this is key for a non-soggy, restaurant-quality low-carb pasta.
Pro Tip: No spiralizer? Use a julienne peeler. Thicker “linguine” strands hold up better and improve texture for gluten-free pasta recipes.
2. Build the Flavor Base (Garlic + Olive Oil)
Heat 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant. This forms the heart-healthy base aligned with the Mediterranean diet.
Pro Tip: Keep the heat moderate; browned garlic turns bitter and can overpower the delicate dill and lemon.
3. Cook Zoodles Al Dente (Fast & Fresh)
Add the prepared zoodles. Toss with tongs for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Avoid overcooking—zucchini releases water quickly. You’re aiming for a springy, al dente bite that mimics traditional pasta while staying low carb and Weight Watchers friendly.
Meal-Prep Tip: For best leftovers, slightly undercook now; they’ll reheat perfectly without getting watery.
4. Add Brightness: Lemon Juice, Zest & Freshly Cracked Pepper
Turn the heat to low. Add the zest and juice of 1 large lemon, ½–1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and ½ tsp sea salt (to taste). Toss to coat evenly. This step delivers the zesty, peppery profile that defines lemon-pepper zucchini pasta.
Flavor Tip: Freshly cracked pepper blooms with lemon’s acidity—great for heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory eating patterns.
5. Finish with Dill & Optional Parmesan
Remove from heat. Fold in ¼ cup chopped fresh dill and, optionally 2 tbsp grated Parmesan for umami. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with a pinch of red chili flakes if you enjoy gentle heat.
Vegan Swap: Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, savory finish while keeping this a plant-based pasta.
6. Make It a Balanced Meal (High-Protein Add-Ins)
For a complete, satiating dinner, add grilled chicken breast, garlic shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas. This simple upgrade turns your low-calorie, gluten-free dinner into a high-protein recipe ideal for busy weeknights and healthy meal prep.
Tip: Choose chicken or shrimp for lean protein, tofu for vegetarian, chickpeas for vegan Mediterranean diet goals.
Related: Easy Chickpea Salad Recipe
✨ Variations & Substitutions for Dill Recipes
Want to customize your dill recipes for different diets, tastes, or seasonal ingredients? Here are the best options and variations to make your recipe healthy, budget-friendly, and tailored to your tastes.
🥒 Fresh Dill vs. Dried Dill
If you don’t have fresh dill, substitute with dried dill weed. Use 1 teaspoon dried dill for every 1 tablespoon fresh dill. Dried dill intensifies flavor in soups, stews, and sauces.
🍋 Flavor Boosting Substitutions
Add a splash of lemon juice, lime, or apple cider vinegar to brighten up dill-based sauces and dips. These are excellent low-calorie ways to enhance flavor and reduce sodium naturally.
🌱 Herb Swaps
No dill on hand? Try tarragon, parsley, chives, or fennel fronds as herbal alternatives. These herbs complement fish, chicken, and vegetable recipes while keeping a fresh, healthy flavor profile.
🥗 Vegan & Dairy-Free Options
Replace sour cream or yogurt in dill sauces with coconut yogurt, cashew cream, or oat-based alternatives. This makes your recipes perfect for vegan and lactose-intolerant diets.
🍖 Protein Pairings
Dill isn’t just for vegetables! Pair it with salmon, shrimp, chicken breast, or tofu for a high-protein, low-carb meal prep idea. These variations are Weight Watchers, Keto, and Paleo-friendly.
🌍 Global Flavor Twists
Give your dill recipe a cultural touch:
- Greek: Add dill to tzatziki with cucumber & garlic.
- Indian: Mix dill with lentils and mild spices.
- Scandinavian: Use dill in pickled fish and potato salads.
👉 Pro Tip: Always taste as you go when substituting! A little goes a long way with dill, and balancing flavors ensures your dish stays delicious.
Suggested: Crispy Halloumi With Tomatoes & White Beans
Serving Suggestions — Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta with Dill
Use these serving suggestions to turn this zucchini pasta recipe into a complete Mediterranean meal or a light summer plate.
Perfect Pairings — Sides & Drinks
- Arugula & Lemon Vinaigrette Salad — shaved Parmesan, toasted pine nuts; bright, peppery contrast (great for Mediterranean diet recipes).
- Garlic-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes — blistered for natural sweetness and color.
- Warm Whole-Grain or Sourdough Slice — for a heartier option; pairs well if you’re not strictly low-carb.
- Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc, Vermentino, or Pinot Grigio complement citrusy lemon pasta.
- Non-alcoholic: chilled sparkling water with cucumber & lemon or rosemary-lemon iced tea — low-calorie refreshers.
Protein Add-Ons — High-Protein Dinner Options
- Grilled Chicken Breast — thinly sliced and tossed warm for a complete high-protein zucchini pasta.
- Pan-seared Shrimp — fast, low-calorie, ideal with lemon & dill for a keto-friendly plate.
- Oven-roasted Salmon — omega-3 rich choice that pairs beautifully with dill.
- Chickpeas or Cannellini Beans — plant-based protein for vegetarian versions; adds texture and fiber.
- Marinated Tofu or Tempeh — lemon-pepper marinade for a vegan, protein-rich swap.
Presentation & Serving Size
For 2 people: ~4 cups zoodles + 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil + one protein portion (120–140g).
Meal prep: store zoodles and sauce separately; combine when reheating to avoid sogginess.
Suggested: Kolkata Style Chicken Kathi Roll
Frequently Asked Questions — Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta with Dill
Keeping zoodles al dente preserves flavor and prevents dilution of the lemon-dill dressing — essential for a restaurant-quality, low-calorie pasta alternative.
If you want low-calorie + high-protein, add 100–120g grilled chicken per serving. If you want a heart-healthy Mediterranean option, choose salmon.
- Weight Watchers: Zoodles are low-point; track added oil and cheese.
- Keto: Keep oil moderate and add high-fat toppings (parmesan, pine nuts, or avocado) while limiting starchy sides.
- Mediterranean diet: Olive oil, fresh herbs (dill), lemon, and fish or legumes make it an ideal match.
For strict keto, add fatty fish or extra olive oil and avoid chickpeas.
- Want low calories & plant-based? → Vegan zoodles with chickpeas + nutritional yeast.
- Need quick protein for after-work? → Add grilled shrimp or chicken (10–12 min total).
- Cooking for guests? → Make a creamy lemon-dill version with Greek yogurt and toasted pine nuts.
Ready to cook? Choose one variation and follow our step-by-step image guide in the recipe card for best results.
Related: 300 Calorie Salad Bowls
Top Tools & Ingredients for Lemon-Pepper Zucchini Pasta
Carefully selected products to make your lemon-pepper zucchini pasta effortless, healthy and delicious — best for zoodles, low-carb dinners, and Mediterranean-style cooking.
Best Zucchini Spiralizer — Quick Zoodles Every Time
Effortlessly make restaurant-quality zoodles. Ideal for low-carb pasta recipes, keto zucchini noodles, and quick summer dinners.
- Stainless steel blades — durable for zucchini, carrots, cucumbers
- Easy clean & dishwasher safe
- Includes julienne & spaghetti discs for texture variety
Premium Non-Stick Skillet — Perfect for Zoodles
Even heat and nonstick coating make this skillet a must for quick skillet cooking — retains vitamins and texture in low-calorie, healthy pasta meals.
- PFOA-free, even heat — ideal for quick garlic & lemon saute
- Oven safe — finish with broiled Parmesan if desired
- Easy release to keep zoodles al dente
Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil — Flavor & Health
Use for light sautéing and finishing — adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Cold-pressed, extra virgin — robust lemon & herb pairings
- Low acidity — ideal for dressings and light sautés
- Great for Mediterranean diet & low-carb recipes
| Product | Why it’s great | Best for | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zucchini Spiralizer | Fast spiralizing, multiple blade options, dishwasher safe | Meal prep zoodles & low-carb pasta | $14.99 | Buy |
| Non-Stick Skillet | Even heating, nonstick release, oven safe | Sautéing, finishing, one-pan dinners | $34.95 | Buy |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Cold-pressed, robust flavor, heart-healthy fats | Dressing, low-temp sauté, finishing | $29.99 | Buy |
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