Zucchini spaghetti, also known as "zoodles," is a fantastic low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta. It’s quick to prepare, and you can top it with a variety of sauces and toppings for a delicious meal. Here’s a simple recipe to make zucchini spaghetti:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 cup marinara sauce for simplicity)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Zucchini:
- Spiralize the Zucchini: Use a spiralizer to turn the zucchinis into "noodles." If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a julienne peeler or mandoline to create thin strips.
- Drain Excess Moisture: Place the zucchini noodles in a colander, sprinkle with a little salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
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Cook the Zucchini Noodles:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Zucchini Noodles: Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still slightly crisp. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
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Add Tomatoes or Sauce:
- With Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften and release their juices.
- With Marinara Sauce: If using marinara sauce, simply add it to the skillet and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
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Season and Finish:
- Season: Season the zucchini spaghetti with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh basil or parsley.
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Serve: Transfer the zucchini spaghetti to plates or bowls. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and serve immediately.
Tips:
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, you can top the zucchini spaghetti with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Sauce Variations: Try different sauces like pesto, Alfredo, or a simple garlic and olive oil dressing.
- Storage: Zucchini noodles are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Enjoy your zucchini spaghetti—a light and tasty alternative to traditional pasta that’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal!
