Zucchini spaghetti with tomato sauce

Zucchini noodles with tomato sauce: a quick and healthy recipe

Who would have thought we could turn a simple zucchini into a delicacy that rivals traditional spaghetti? This zucchini noodle recipe with tomato sauce is not only quick but also full of flavor, providing a healthy alternative to classic pasta. Preparing these noodles is so simple and enjoyable that you'll surely add them to your weekly menu.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients you need:
- 1 fresh zucchini, preferably young and firm
- 1 medium ripe tomato
- Seasonings to taste: salt, pepper, garlic powder, chili
- Optional: a few sprigs of fresh herbs (basil, parsley) or dried herb powder

Preparing the zucchini noodles:
1. Preparing the zucchini: Start by washing the zucchini well. You can choose to peel it or leave the skin on, depending on your preference. The skin adds extra texture, but if you want a smoother appearance, you can remove it.

2. Creating the noodles: Use a spiralizer, if you have one, to turn the zucchini into long, thin noodles. If you don't have such a device, you can use a vegetable peeler to slice the zucchini into thin strips, which you can then cut into sticks. This method is a bit more labor-intensive, but the final result will be just as delicious.

3. Setting aside: Once you have your noodles, set them aside. You can sprinkle a little salt over them to help draw out excess moisture. This step is important to avoid a watery dish.

Preparing the tomato sauce:
1. Sauce ingredients: Cut the tomato into large cubes and place it in a blender. Add your preferred seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili for a spicy kick. If you have fresh herbs, now is the time to add them to the blender to enhance the sauce's flavor.

2. Blending: Blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth sauce. If you prefer a more rustic texture, feel free to leave some larger pieces of tomato in the sauce for added character.

3. Heating the sauce: Pour the obtained sauce into a pan over medium heat and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

Finalizing the dish:
1. Mixing the noodles: Add the zucchini noodles to the tomato sauce and mix well, ensuring that each zucchini strip is coated with sauce.

2. Serving: You can serve the dish immediately, garnishing with fresh herbs if you have them on hand. These zucchini noodles with tomato sauce pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or even with a few slices of toasted bread.

Helpful tips:
- Choosing the zucchini: Opt for young zucchinis as they have a crisper texture and a sweeter taste.
- Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan, but for an extra protein boost, you can add cooked chickpeas or fried tofu.
- Sauce variations: Instead of tomatoes, experiment with avocado-based sauces or pesto, which pair wonderfully with zucchini noodles.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of zucchini noodles has about 50 calories, making it an excellent alternative for those looking to reduce carbohydrates. Zucchini is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can experiment with carrots or cucumbers, but this will require a different approach in preparation.

- How can I make this dish more filling?
Add proteins like grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or a serving of feta cheese for a unique taste and texture.

Zucchini noodles with tomato sauce are not only a delicious meal but also an excellent way to enjoy vegetables in a new way. Once you try them, they will surely become a frequent choice on your menu. Enjoy!