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Fresh Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

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A quick, easy, and healthy recipe featuring tender zucchini noodles tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a touch of parmesan. Perfect for light dinners or lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
  • 1 to 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Using a spiralizer, turn 3 medium zucchinis into noodles. If unavailable, use a julienne peeler to create thin strips. Place noodles in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let drain for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry gently with paper towels.
  2. While the zucchini drains, halve 1 to 1½ cups of cherry tomatoes and mince 2 garlic cloves finely. Set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened but still holding shape.
  5. Add the drained zucchini noodles to the pan. Toss gently with tomatoes and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until noodles are just tender but still firm.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil leaves, 1 tablespoon lemon juice (if using), a pinch of red pepper flakes (if desired), and salt and pepper to taste. Toss well to combine.
  7. Sprinkle ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese over the noodles and gently mix to incorporate.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves or parmesan if desired.

Notes

Salting the zucchini noodles and letting them drain removes excess moisture and prevents sogginess. Cook zucchini noodles quickly over medium heat to keep them tender but firm. Add fresh basil off the heat to preserve its aroma. Parmesan cheese adds umami but can be substituted with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. Drain any excess liquid during cooking to avoid watery noodles.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini noodles, zucchini pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil, healthy recipe, low carb, gluten free, vegetarian, easy dinner

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/fresh-zucchini-noodles-with-cherry-tomatoes-and-basil-easy-healthy-recipe/