Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini (approx. 500g / 1.1 lbs), ends trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 6g)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) (approx. 1g)
- 1 (400g / 14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (60 ml)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (approx. 25g)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (approx. 6g)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (approx. 2g)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add the zucchini noodles and fresh basil to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the noodles in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the zucchini noodles are slightly softened but still have a bit of bite. Don't overcook them, you don't want soggy zoodles!
- Stir in the lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.