This zucchini noodle dish is a refreshing and flavorful summer side or main. Spiralized zucchini noodles are tossed in a tangy lemon-olive oil dressing and topped with nutritional yeast, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. The noodles can be marinated for at least 15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, have become increasingly popular in recent years as a healthy and low-carb alternative to pasta. They can be made using a spiralizer, a kitchen tool that creates long, thin strands of vegetables. Zucchini noodles are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries to casseroles.
This particular recipe is inspired by the classic Italian pasta dish cacio e pepe. Cacio e pepe is made with just a few simple ingredients: pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The cheese and pepper create a rich and flavorful sauce that coats the pasta. In this recipe, we've replaced the pasta with zucchini noodles and added a bit of lemon juice for brightness. The result is a dish that is both light and refreshing, yet still satisfying.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 medium zucchini, spiralized
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the zucchini noodles, olive oil, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Toss to coat evenly.
Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Why It Works
The spiralized zucchini noodles provide a healthy and low-carb base for the dish.
The lemon-olive oil dressing adds a tangy and flavorful contrast to the zucchini noodles.
The nutritional yeast adds a nutty and cheesy flavor to the dish, similar to Pecorino Romano cheese.
The garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.