How to Make "Zoodles"

Tired of pasty pasta? Wanna cut down on carbs? Had it with rice? Or maybe you just want to eat more zucchini that doesn't taste so much like, well, zucchini? 

Then try "zoodles." Thin strips of zucchini that have the look and texture of spaghetti. Great as a side dish, with a sprinkling of parmesan cheese, and even holds up pretty well under a tomato sauce.

Zoodles with Cheese

 Serves: 1

First, you'll need to get yourself a cute Veggetti gadget (you might buy it at your local homegoods store, or see link at the end of this post to get one online).

Ingredients

For each serving, use 1 medium zucchini
Salt and pepper
Cheese for grating over the top: parmigiano-regiano (if you want something aged and mellow); pecorino-romano (if you want a more salty, gamey taste). Buy the best you can afford, because you won't be using much. Don't use pre-packaged grated parmesan-type cheese.

Directions

• Wash the zucchini and cut off both ends. DO NOT PEEL.
• Holding the zucchini by one end, place the other end into the spiraling device. Holding the device in one hand and the zucchini in the other, slowly turn until spirals begin to come through the grates in the device (I use the larger side).
• Continue turning until the end of the zucchini gets parallel with the edge of the device. Then -- very important -- place the device top over the last of the zucchini to engage the teeth, and continue turning. DO NOT USE YOUR HAND FOR THE LAST PART. Sharp, sharp, sharp.
• When finished, slice the pile of spirals once and place in a microwave appropriate dish.
• Add a little salt and pepper, cover and cook 2 minutes (no more). Don't add any water.
• Turn out onto a plate, and freshly grate your choice of cheese on top -- or top with tomato sauce, or maybe a Thai chicken curry.
• When you wash out your device, be sure to use a brush for washing the inside, because (take it from me) those blades are SHARP!

If you received this by email, click here for tips and more recipes.

You can get the Veggetti here: