Sometimes just nothing will take the place of the “real” thing; however let me tell you if you love pasta but are avoiding it due to nutrition guidelines, these noodles should certainly become a staple in your meals. They are healthy, filling, low calorie, and low carb! How? They are made from zucchini…unleash the zoodles! There are so many meal options, hot or cold, that you can create with these gems. One of my favorites is Zoodles with Feta and Roasted Tomatoes; it is so darn delicious that you will forget that you’re not eating a genuine Italian pasta dish. Be creative and have fun preparing your own versions. Enjoy!

Keeping our bodies in shape is hard work…and yes it absolutely does mean making sacrifices when it comes to the foods that we choose to eat! However, the key is to still enjoy the foods that you love by simply recreating them into a healthy version. That’s what I’m here for! I’ll take the guesswork away from you and bring you new recipes each and every week! It’s all about being creative with good-for-you foods! As my trademark proclaims, I will always do my best to deliver to you: 100% Taste, 0% Guilt! It’s all here for you and ready to go. Each Alli’s Slim Pickins recipe recipe provides detailed ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions on how to prepare each mouth-watering meal! Come on, let’s make it happen…

ZOODLES w/ FETA AND ROASTED TOMATOES

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini
1 cup mini heirloom or cherry tomatoes
4 tsp. olive oil
1/2 clove garlic, minced
2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
salt and black pepper, to taste
fresh basil, chopped
pinch red pepper flakes, or to taste
3 TB feta cheese, crumbled
1 TB grated Romano or parmesan cheese (optional)

*NOTE! You will need a Spiralizer (or similar tool) for this recipe. If you don’t have one yet, you will be so happy that I introduced you!!

How to Prepare

1. Preheat oven to 400F.
2. Spiralize your zucchinis to create your zoodles! Set aside.
3. Toss the cherry tomatoes with 2 tsp. of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and put in oven for approximately 20 minutes (or until the tomatoes brown and begin to split). Remove from the oven and set aside.
4. Heat 2 tsp. of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and add the minced garlic. Heat for 1 minute and then add the zoodles. Cook for approximately 3 minutes, until the zoodles begin to soften, then add the roasted tomatoes, lemon juice, salt and pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix to combine.
5. Top the noodles with crumbled feta, freshly chopped basil, and grated cheese. Enjoy!

OPTION: Top with or serve alongside your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken, fish, or lean meat.

NUTRITION DATA

Per serving (recipe serves 2): 200 calories, 7 grams protein, 10 grams carbohydrates (3 grams fiber), 14.5 grams fat

100% TASTE, 0% GUILT

Editor’s Note: If you have any specific requests or would like to share your feedback on the above recipes, please e-mail Allison Frahn at AliFrahn@yahoo.com.