Zoodles Salad Recipe – Zucchini Noodles
Introduction
The Zoodles Salad, a delightful and refreshing dish that embraces the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and crisp textures, is a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of fresh vegetables while keeping your meals light and nutritious. This appetizing salad features zucchini noodles, affectionately known as “zoodles,” tossed with a medley of cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. This dish not only appeals to the palate but is also a feast for the eyes, making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings or a light side dish for a satisfying meal. Ideal for those following a vegetarian diet, this salad can be served warm or cold, showcasing its versatility and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Zoodles Salad:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green zucchini | 1 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh basil leaves | a handful |
| Cherry tomatoes | 5, cut into halves |
Nutritional Information
Enjoy the benefits of a nutrient-packed dish with the following nutritional values per serving (approximately):
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Preparation Time
| Task | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 15 |
| Cooking | 5 |
| Total Time | 20 |
Instructions
Embarking on the culinary journey of creating your Zoodles Salad is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a perfect dish every time:
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Prepare the Zucchini: Start by taking the green zucchini and chopping off both ends. If you have a spiralizer, place the zucchini in between the spiked handle and the end of the blade. Spin the handle to transform the zucchini into beautiful noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, fear not! Simply cut thin slices of zucchini lengthwise, then cut those slices into thin, long julienne strips to achieve your desired noodle shape.
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Sauté the Ingredients: Heat a pan over medium flame and add the extra virgin olive oil. To the oil, add a pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and a handful of torn basil leaves. Sauté the mixture for a couple of minutes, just until the tomatoes soften slightly, and the zoodles are heated through but still retain a delightful al dente texture.
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Add Lemon Juice: Once the zoodles are cooked, turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. This will add a refreshing brightness to the dish that perfectly complements the zucchini and tomatoes.
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Serve: Transfer the zoodles salad to a serving bowl. You can serve it warm for a comforting experience or let it cool down for a refreshing salad. For an elevated dining experience, pair the Zoodles Salad with a hearty Potato Spinach Roulade with Parmesan Cheese & Herbed Butter Sauce or Chicken in Lemon Butter Sauce to create a delightful weekend lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
The Zoodles Salad not only delivers on flavor but also invites a plethora of nutritional benefits, thanks to its fresh and wholesome ingredients. This dish is a wonderful representation of continental cuisine, celebrating the simple yet elegant combination of zucchini and basil, enhanced by the zesty notes of lemon and the richness of olive oil. It’s a dish that can easily become a staple in your home, whether enjoyed on its own or as a part of a more elaborate meal. Embrace the vibrant essence of this Zoodles Salad, and let each bite transport you to a sunny, carefree afternoon!
