Zucchini Noodle Primavera Basil (Print)

Spiralized zucchini, vibrant veggies, fresh basil, and olive oil create a healthy Italian-inspired main dish.

# Components:

→ Produce

01 - 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
02 - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
03 - 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
06 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 cup baby spinach leaves
09 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

→ Pantry

10 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
11 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
14 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

→ Garnish (Optional)

15 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative

# Directions:

01 - Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
02 - Introduce the sliced bell peppers, asparagus pieces, and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are tender yet retain a slight crispness.
03 - Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and baby spinach to the skillet. Drizzle with the remaining extra virgin olive oil. Season with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Gently toss all components to combine and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the zucchini noodles are warmed through without becoming waterlogged.
04 - Remove the skillet from the heat. Incorporate the freshly squeezed lemon juice and torn fresh basil leaves. Toss gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
05 - Serve the Zucchini Noodle Primavera immediately. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or a vegan alternative, if desired.

# Chef Secrets:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Showcases fresh seasonal produce at its peak
  • Naturally gluten free and low carb without sacrificing flavor
  • Easily customizable with whatever vegetables you have on hand
02 -
  • Contains just 130 calories per serving making it perfect for light meals
  • Provides 4 different vegetables in one dish for excellent nutritional variety
  • Can be prepared ahead by prepping all vegetables the morning before cooking
03 -
  • For the absolute best texture, salt your spiralized zucchini in a colander for 15 minutes before cooking. This draws out excess moisture, resulting in noodles that maintain their structure rather than turning watery. Just be sure to rinse the salt off and pat them dry before adding to your skillet.
  • Another game-changing technique is to warm your serving bowls in the oven on low heat before plating. This keeps the dish from cooling too quickly and maintains that perfect al dente texture from first bite to last.
  • Finally, if you're making this for a dinner party, prepare all vegetables ahead of time but cook just before serving for the freshest result.