Hey there, pasta lovers!
Are you in the mood for a fresh twist on a classic dish? I’ve got something special for you today!
Let’s dive into the world of zoodles with red tomato sauce. What’s a zoodle, you ask? It’s just a fun name for zucchini noodles!
They’re light, healthy, and so much fun to eat. Plus, slathering them in rich, red tomato sauce makes everything better.
Get ready for a delicious meal that’s super easy to whip up! Let’s get cooking!
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
Zucchini noodles (zoodles) can be replaced with spiralized carrots, butternut squash, or sweet potatoes for different flavors and nutrient profiles. These alternatives provide similar textures and can be prepared using the same spiralizing method. For a lower-carb option, consider using spaghetti squash. Traditional pasta sauce can be substituted with homemade tomato sauce or pureed roasted red peppers for a fresher taste and reduced sodium content. Adjust seasoning as needed. Pine nuts can be replaced with chopped walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds to accommodate nut allergies while maintaining a crunchy texture and healthy fat content. Use the same quantity as called for in the original recipe.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Total Time | 25-35 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 400-450
- Protein: 10-15 g
- Fat: 20-25 g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 g
Ingredients
- 1 can pasta sauce (I use Prego Traditional)
- 4 medium zucchini (spiralized into zoodles)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup grape tomatoes (halved for best texture)
- 2 containers mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp pine nuts
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
Start by spiralizing the zucchini to create zucchini noodles, often referred to as “zoodles.” Set them aside for cooking.
Step 2: Cook and Chill the Zoodles
In a pot, cook the zucchini noodles in 1/2 cup of water until they become soft.
Once cooked, drain the zoodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and maintain their texture.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Combine Ingredients
In a pan, sauté the mushrooms until they are reduced in size and have released their moisture.
Once the mushrooms are ready, add the sauce, fresh spinach, and grape tomatoes to the pan.
Cook this mixture until the sauce is thoroughly heated and the spinach has wilted.
Step 4: Combine the Zoodles with the Sauce
When you’re ready to eat, add the chilled zucchini noodles to the sauce, mushroom, spinach, and tomato mixture.
Stir to ensure all the noodles are well-coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the finished dish to pasta bowls for serving.
Garnish with crushed pine nuts for added flavor and texture.
Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious and delicious meal!
