If you haven’t tried zucchini noodles, now’s your chance. Zucchini noodles can be a great way to increase your vegetable intake while still enjoying a “pasta” inspired dish. They are also a great alternative for those needing to avoid gluten or eggs.

How to Make “Zoodles” a Balanced Meal:

To create a balanced meal, focus on three things, 1) protein, 2) carbohydrate, 3) color – fruit or vegetable

1. Add a protein: pair with grilled chicken, ground beef, tofu, or quinoa
2. Add a carbohydrate: pair with whole grain bread, rolls, sweet peas (starchy vegetable), or potatoes (starchy vegetable)
3. Vegetable: zucchini noodles!

Recipe:

• 3 whole zucchinis
• 1 tsp crushed garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for coating pan)
• Optional: parmesan cheese, lemon, or sauce of choice (ex. marinara sauce)

Steps:

1. Prepare “zoodles”: use either a spiralizer or cheese grater to slice zucchini into spaghetti shaped noodles.
2. Lightly coat pan with olive oil, add crushed garlic, and warm on medium heat. Once oil bubbles, add zoodles into pan and cook for 5-7 minutes (do not overcook, or noodles with become mushy).
3. Remove from pan and top with your favorite sauce. Enjoy!

READ MORE ON DIFFERENT TYPES OF NOODLES HERE