Are you looking for a light and refreshing dish that embodies the flavors of the Mediterranean? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Mediterranean Zucchini Noodles! This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy and easy to make. By using zucchini as noodles, you can enjoy all the flavors of a traditional pasta dish without the heaviness. So, let’s dive into this wonderful recipe that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean!
Mediterranean Zucchini Noodles
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Start by spiralizing the zucchinis to create the noodle-like strands. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to make long, thin strips resembling noodles. Set the zucchini noodles aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Next, add the zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss them gently to combine with the tomatoes and garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the zucchini noodles are just tender but still have a slight crunch.
5. Stir in the Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the zucchini noodles to serving plates. Top with some fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
7. Serve the Mediterranean Zucchini Noodles warm and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!
These zucchini noodles are not only a delicious option for a light lunch or dinner but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. The combination of fresh zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite Mediterranean ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even grilled shrimp for a protein boost. You can also pair these zucchini noodles with a side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal.
So, the next time you’re craving a taste of the Mediterranean, whip up a batch of these flavorful zucchini noodles and transport yourself to a sunny Mediterranean villa with every bite. Bon appétit!