Let's talk Zucchini!
Zucchini is a summer squash that is packed with nutrients! Zucchini is very versatile and can be used in many different dishes. One of Linked Fit's favorite ways to eat zucchini is spiraled into a "noodle". Below we'll dive a little deeper into the now trendy zucchini noodle!
What are Zucchini Noodles?
They are simply just zucchinis that have been spiral-sliced to look like noodles. Thus, leading to the creation of the name of the “Zoodle”!
Why are they so great?
Zucchini is a low-calorie veggie! This makes Zucchini Noodles a perfect fit for low-calorie alternatives. For example, substituting wheat pasta or flour pasta for zucchini noodles. There are numerous recipes involving zucchini noodles, but we will provide a simple and basic recipe in this article. Additionally, some tips for making Zucchini Noodles at home with ease!
What is needed?
A Spiral Slicer: Spiralizer! A Spiralizer can be found at a local home and goods store, they are fairly inexpensive. What is nice about it, they usually come with different blades to modify the shape and thickness of the Zucchini Noodle!
Enjoy the processing of cooking! It should be fun and relaxing! Alexandra Brown
Making the Zucchini Noodles!
Start by cutting the ends off the Zucchini
Secure Zucchini in the Spiralizer
Start spinning the handle, continuously pushing the Zucchini down
Always spiral raw Zucchini
Don’t skin the Zucchini
Cutting the zucchini in half might be necessary so it fits better
Once spiraled cut into smaller piece
Cooking the Zucchini Noodles!
Pan-fry
The most popular way of cooking Zucchini Noodles
Zucchinis hold a lot of water, therefore, before you begin cooking: try to eliminate as much moisture as possible. Place the Zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let this sit for 10 to 30 minutes. After, gently pat the Zucchini Noodles dry. Skipping this step may result in the meal coming out a bit "watery"
Once drained and dried, now place them in a frying pan. The heat should be on medium with a little olive oil! Pan fry for 2 to 4 minutes.
Oven
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Spread Zucchini Noodles over a large baking sheet, do not use a small baking dish
Sprinkle with a little salt and olive oil
Bake for 15 minutes
Roasting them at 400 degrees for about 10 minutes is an option as well.
Neither of these methods requires removing excess water, but drying them beforehand is a good idea.
Raw
Zucchinis can be eaten raw!
This would make the meal more like a pasta salad.
Now that the Zucchini Noodles are ready to eat, top them with any sauce desired, and add other sources of protein and veggies to the meal if desired.
Watery or mushy?
Do not overcrowd when cooking
Pat dry/drain before cooking and pat dry again after cooking
Cook over medium heat
Do not overcook
Do not cook noodles ahead of time. Only cook when ready to serve and eat.
Do not add sauces until ready to be served and eaten
We will continue to provide more Zucchini recipes!
Remember, zucchini is super versatile and can be used in just about any dish. Stay tuned for more!
Below is a simple Zucchini Noodle Pasta Dish! Check out our Zucchini Food Stats for more.
Check out more Zucchini Recipes: Zucchini Noodles and Meatballs, Scalloped Zucchini, Zucchini Banana Bread!
