Creamy Garlic Parmesan Zoodles

As the culinary world continues to embrace health-conscious alternatives to traditional ingredients, zoodles—short for zucchini noodles—have emerged as a popular choice for those looking to lighten their meals without sacrificing flavor. These spiralized zucchini strands offer a fresh, low-carb option that mimics the texture of pasta, making them a favorite for both health enthusiasts and busy cooks alike. The appeal of zoodles lies not only in their nutritional benefits but also in their versatility, allowing them to be incorporated into a myriad of dishes, from salads to stir-fries, and of course, as the star of our recipe: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Zoodles.

Discover the delightful world of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Zoodles, a healthy twist on traditional pasta. Made from spiralized zucchini, zoodles offer a low-carb and nutritious alternative that doesn't skimp on flavor. This quick recipe features a rich, creamy sauce laced with garlic and Parmesan, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings. Elevate your cooking with this versatile dish that promises satisfaction and health benefits in every bite. Dive into easy preparation tips and enjoy a comforting meal that showcases the best of wholesome ingredients. Perfect for anyone looking to embrace healthier eating without sacrificing taste!

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Ingredients

4 medium zucchini (approximately 1 lb), spiralized into zoodles

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust for spice preference)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Zoodles: Begin by spiralizing the zucchini into zoodles using a spiralizer for the best texture. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to make long ribbons, keeping in mind they won't resemble traditional noodles.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large, non-stick skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it's fragrant and turns a light golden color. Be cautious not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Add the Cream: Carefully pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well to incorporate it with the sautéed garlic. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, watching it closely to prevent boiling over.

Incorporate Cheese: Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to achieve a uniform mixture. Continue to stir until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes rich, creamy, and smooth.

Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in the garlic powder and red pepper flakes (if you're using them), then season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste. Stir everything together until well-blended.

Cook the Zoodles: Toss the spiralized zucchini noodles into the creamy garlic sauce. Gently stir to coat the zoodles and cook for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to become tender yet maintain a slight firmness (al dente) for the best texture, so avoid overcooking.

Garnish and Serve: Once the zoodles are cooked to perfection, take the skillet off the heat and garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot, offering additional grated Parmesan on the side for those who desire an extra cheesy touch.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings

Presentation Tips: To enhance the visual appeal, consider serving the zoodles in individual bowls, twirling them into nest-like shapes, and topping with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few extra parsley leaves for a pop of color.