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Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini Noodles
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Zucchini noodles provide a fresh, light, and nutritious alternative to traditional pasta. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this recipe offers vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients perfect for a healthy, gluten-free meal that satisfies pasta cravings without the carbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 medium fresh, firm zucchini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or oregano), chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Protein boost options: grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or tofu (amount as desired)
  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (to taste, for spicy kick)
  • Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (1-2 tablespoons, for crunch)
  • Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan for a vegan option
  • Alternative sauces: creamy avocado sauce, classic marinara, or tangy peanut sauce (amount as desired)

Instructions

  1. Spiralize the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim off the ends. Use a spiralizer, julienne peeler, or mandoline to create even, thin noodles resembling spaghetti or fettuccine.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices, forming a light sauce base.
  3. Cook the Zucchini Noodles: Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the pan. Toss gently with the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy noodles.
  4. Season and Garnish: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in fresh lemon juice, chopped herbs, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Choose firm zucchini to prevent soggy noodles.
  • Lightly salt raw zucchini noodles and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  • Use high heat briefly when sautéing to keep noodles crisp.
  • Add crunchy toppings like toasted nuts for texture contrast.
  • Serve zucchini noodles fresh after cooking for best taste and crispness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; best to keep noodles and sauce separate.
  • Freezing zucchini noodles is not recommended due to water content causing mushiness.
  • Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or enjoy cold in salads.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini noodles, zucchini pasta, gluten-free pasta alternative, low carb noodles, healthy zucchini recipes, spiralized vegetables, light meals, vegetable noodles

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/zucchini-noodles/