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Fresh Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

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A light, fresh, and quick recipe featuring crisp zucchini noodles tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchinis (firm and fresh; choose smaller ones for better texture)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes (preferably vine-ripened or heirloom)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn or roughly chopped)
  • Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
  • Optional toppings: grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese
  • Optional toppings: red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Using a spiralizer, create noodles about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. If using a peeler, create long, thin ribbons. Set aside in a colander to drain excess water for about 5 minutes.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add whole cherry tomatoes to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until tomatoes soften and blister but remain slightly chunky.
  4. Reduce heat to low and add the drained zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss gently with the tomato mixture for 1-2 minutes to warm through and coat with juices. Avoid overcooking to keep noodles tender-crisp.
  5. Remove skillet from heat. Tear fresh basil leaves over the noodles and gently mix to combine. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve immediately, optionally topped with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Drain zucchini noodles well to avoid sogginess. Add basil at the end to preserve its aroma and flavor. Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for best taste. Avoid overcooking zucchini noodles to keep a pleasant bite. Spiralize zucchini while tomatoes cook to save time. For vegan version, omit cheese and consider adding toasted nuts for protein and crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini noodles, zucchini pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil, healthy recipe, gluten-free, vegan option, quick meal, light dinner, fresh vegetables

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