Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's not only delicious but also bursting with fresh flavors? Dive into the vibrant world of Italian cuisine with our Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce! This quick and easy recipe, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without the fuss. With zoodles that are both nutritious and satisfying, this dish is a guilt-free pleasure that will leave you craving more. Read on to discover how to make this delightful meal that will have your taste buds dancing!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the zucchinis under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create zucchini noodles (often called "zoodles") from the zucchinis. If using a peeler, make long, thin strips, and then cut them into shorter lengths if desired. Set the zoodles aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Next, add the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the garlic, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Season the tomato mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- While the sauce is simmering, prepare the zucchini noodles. In a separate pan, lightly sauté the zoodles over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until they are just tender. Avoid overcooking, as you want them to retain some crunch.
- Once the sauce has simmered and the flavors have developed, stir in the chopped fresh basil. Allow it to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to infuse the basil flavor into the sauce.
- To serve, place a generous portion of zucchini noodles on each plate, and ladle the tomato basil sauce over the top. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious and healthy Zucchini Noodles with Tomato Basil Sauce!
Tips
- Choosing the Right Zucchini: Opt for firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture. Avoid any that are soft or have blemishes.
- Perfecting Your Zoodles: If you don’t have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler works just as well! Just remember to slice them thinly for that perfect noodle-like shape.
- Sautéing Zoodles: Be careful not to overcook your zucchini noodles. They should be sautéed just until tender, about 3-5 minutes, to maintain a satisfying crunch.
- Enhancing Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick!
- Garnishing: Fresh basil is key! Don’t skip the garnish; it adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation to your dish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the tomato basil sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days, making this dish a great option for meal prep!
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your zoodles with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 65kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
