These zucchini noodles closely resemble the taste and texture of traditional pasta. The cheesy, garlicky strands are unbelievably good!.
Use pre-spiralized zucchini for the easiest possible preparation. Additionally, you can combine these with a cooked protein (like chicken or shrimp) to create a full meal.
These zoodles with butter and parmesan are so amazing. The first time I made them, I was thrilled because they taste so much like real buttered noodles!
Over the past few years, I’ve used this recipe frequently. Its so delicious. I always think to myself as I savor the cheesy, garlicky strands, “Well, it’s not EXACTLY like real pasta, but it’s surprisingly close!”
To make zucchini noodles, just a few basic ingredients are required. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Heres an overview of what youll need:
This is a very simple recipe because you can now use packaged zucchini noodles, which wasn’t an option a few years ago. Its literally ready in ten minutes.
Overcooking the zucchini strands will result in them being soggy. Its actually much like cooking pasta al-dente. You want the strands to still have a “bite. ” You dont want them too soft.
Therefore, be careful not to overcook them in the initial cooking stage before adding the garlic. Then, immediately turn off the heat after adding the garlic and allowing it to cook for a moment.
I started making this recipe back in 2014. Back then, I thinly sliced fresh zucchini into thin strips using a sharp knife because I didn’t want to use a mandoline slicer. Later, I discovered that a spiralizer could be purchased for spiralizing vegetables. I am so happy that grocery stores now sell packaged zoodles (I get mine at Whole Foods) as I update this recipe here in 2021. They are much more evenly sliced than my hand-spiralized zucchini, and they are so convenient.
Unfortunately, they dont. This is a great substitute, just like many others, and I find it to be very satisfying and remarkably accurate. However, it is still a substitute, making it suitable for those who are prepared to make some concessions in order to achieve their objectives.
They only require 5 minutes in the pan, possibly even less if your pan is hot. Similar to pasta, you want it to be al dente, so don’t overcook it.
Zucchini noodles are the perfect side dish. They complement a wide variety of main dishes, such as baked salmon, chicken drumsticks, and pork tenderloin.
Additionally, they make a great foundation for saucy dishes like pulled pork, shrimp scampi, or baked scallops.
As previously mentioned, you can transform the noodles from a side dish into a main dish by adding cooked protein (like shredded chicken) to them.
Additionally, I enjoy topping them with meatballs, like these chicken meatballs or these meatballs in tomato sauce.
The leftovers can be kept for about three days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Reheat them gently, covered, in the microwave on 50% power.
I believe you’ll enjoy these leftovers cold as well if you enjoy eating cold leftover pasta. I do!.
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What Do Zucchini Noodles Taste Like?
Zoodles, as zucchini noodles are affectionately known, may not taste like pasta, but they do in that they don’t have a strong flavor. Rather than adding a distinct flavor, they take on the flavors of the sauces and other ingredients they are combined with.
However, there are some subtle aspects of the flavor of zucchini noodles that are unique. Although it can be a little bitter when raw, zucchini noodles have a fresh flavor just like the vegetable. However, this goes away when the noodles are cooked.
See Also: How to Freeze Zucchini
Zucchini Noodle Texture
Due to their softness, zucchini noodles are an excellent alternative to cooked pasta. Since zucchini noodles are already so tender, overcooking them poses a risk, but even extremely mushy zoodles can be tasty.
They’re very moist, and if you make them at home, you’ll likely see water at the bottom of the bowl of freshly spiralized zucchini. That’s O. K. —the zoodles will only emit water in that manner for a short time.
How to Microwave Zucchini Noodles
Microwaves are the fastest way to cook zucchini noodles, which is why they rank second in my list of preferred cooking methods. Put all of your noodles in a dish that can go in the microwave, and cook for one minute. Depending on how many noodles you have, you might need to cook them for longer, but I would advise cooking in 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking. Next, distribute your noodles among serving plates, followed by your preferred sauce.
FAQ
Do zucchini noodles actually taste like pasta?
Although zucchini noodles do not taste exactly like pasta noodles, they are surprisingly filling when cooked correctly (that is, until they are al dente, not mushy).
Are zucchini noodles worth it?
When compared to other nutrient-dense vegetables with the same serving size, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, zucchini is one of the lowest calorie vegetables. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable with only 19 calories per cup.
What does cooked zucchini taste like?
Zucchini has a mild flavor that is slightly sweet and slightly bitter, and it has a rich texture. When cooked, zucchini’s sweetness is more pronounced. Despite the fact that zucchini is already chewable when raw, cooking also helps to soften it.
Does zucchini taste good in spaghetti?
It doesn’t get much better than fresh summer zucchini coated in a crispy, cheesy breading and piled high on top of spaghetti with fresh herbs to make the ideal end-of-summer song.
