If you’re anything like me, always on the lookout for a quick fix that doesn’t sacrifice taste, these zoodles might just be your new best friend. They twirl around your fork like spaghetti, but somehow feel lighter—like a summer breeze or that perfect playlist that just hits right. I started making this dish after a friend raved about her new spiralizer and, honestly, it’s been a game-changer ever since. For those days when you’re craving a hearty meal without the carb overload, this quick and easy zoodles marinara recipe truly delivers.
Steps
- Warm olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. Introduce minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Combine well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the oil on the surface turns a deep orange.
- Incorporate the spiralized zucchini into the pan, ensuring it is well-coated with the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the zucchini noodles become slightly tender.
- Remove the pan from heat and serve the dish immediately. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced white onions
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped and loosely packed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or a pinch of cayenne)
- 2 large zucchinis, spiralized
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnishing
FAQ
- What is the main ingredient used for spiralizing in this Zoodles Marinara recipe?
- The primary ingredient for spiralizing in this recipe is zucchini, which is transformed into zoodles, offering a gluten-free and low-carb option to pasta.
- How should the marinara sauce be prepared to complement the zoodles?
- The marinara sauce should be cooked until it is thick to ensure it coats the zoodles well without becoming too watery, as the zoodles will release some moisture when added to the sauce.
- Can I customize the Zoodles Marinara recipe with additional ingredients?
- Absolutely! You can enhance the dish by adding cooked proteins like chicken or shrimp, or extra vegetables. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients.
- What is a key tip for making the marinara sauce flavorful?
- It is important to use high-quality ingredients, such as good tomatoes and fresh basil and garlic, to ensure the sauce is fresh and full of flavor.
- What should I do if I try the recipe and want to share it on social media?
- If you make the Zoodles Marinara and wish to share your creation on Instagram, you are encouraged to use the hashtag #gimmesomeoven.
Tips
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Since the recipe relies on simple ingredients, investing in high-quality tomatoes, fresh basil, and good olive oil will enhance the flavor of your marinara sauce.
- Thicken Your Marinara Sauce: Ensure your marinara sauce is thick before adding the zoodles. The zucchini noodles release water when cooked, which can thin the sauce if it’s not thick enough initially.
- Cook Zoodles Briefly: When adding the spiralized zucchini to the sauce, toss them well to coat and only cook for 2-3 minutes. This will ensure the zoodles maintain a slight crunch and don’t become mushy.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to add your choice of protein or additional veggies to the dish. The base recipe is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.
Equipment
- Spiralizer – This is essential for creating the zucchini noodles (zoodles).
- Large Saute Pan – While many kitchens have a saute pan, a large one is necessary for cooking the sauce and tossing the zoodles effectively.
