Zucchinni Noodle Pasta Bowl- A Tasty-High Protein Plant- Based Meal

Calling all pasta lovers who watch their carbs and calories and want high protein and high fiber meals. Try something new!!!! Fresh zucchini made into noodles!!! Use it in your favorite pasta dishes. Cooks up in a skillet in minutes.

If you love pasta as much as I do, but are concerned about blood sugar and waistline, this easy Zucchini Noodle Pasta Bowl has vibrant flavors and is a satisfying alternative recipe. It may not be real pasta, but it's a great substitute when you are craving spaghetti and is naturally gluten-free.

This substitute pasta bowl is made by simply tossing together zucchini noodles, your favorite spaghetti sauce, black beans, and even tofu if you like it- all tossed into a large skillet.  Ten minutes later, enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of  high protein healthy mock pasta that really hits the spot.

Zucchini noodles — often called “zoodles” — are simply fresh zucchini spiralized into long spaghetti-like strands. They’re naturally low in carbs and calories, but still give you that fun pasta texture we all crave. You don't boil them!! You simply heat them in a little water in a wide skillet. Add you favorite spaghetti sauce and they become tender, flavorful, and surprisingly pasta-like.

You can buy ready-made fresh zucchini noodles in the produce department of stores such as  Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe's, and many supermarkets. The pre-made zucchini spirals are super convenient, but they can also be super pricey.  I like to make my own and that way, I also know it is really fresh. 

Years ago, I bought a simple spiralizer for about $20, and I still use it all the time- I think it's worth the investment which I believe is now about $33. During zucchini season, making your own zoodles is really inexpensive, fresh, easy and a great way to use up zucchini,

This low-fat, low-carb, high fiber and high protein pasta bowl is hearty and comforting without being heavy. The black beans and tofu add protein, fiber,  flavor and texture, making it filling enough for lunch or dinner. You can add crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick, sprinkle on some vegan Parmesan cheese like I did, or season and top it however you like such as capers and olives.

Not a tofu fan? Not needed —

 just use extra black beans or add your favorite vegetables instead.

Zucchini noodles are very versatile in pasta, stir-fry, Asian dishes that call for thin noodles, soups, etc. 

Explore more plant-based meals-

 especially, easy one's like this one. If you’re trying to cut back on carbs, calories, or just want to add more plant-based meals to your routine, this Zucchini Noodle Pasta Bowl is definitely worth trying. It’s quick, colorful, cozy, and full of flavor — the kind of healthy meal that doesn’t feel like you’re missing out on anything at all. I love it. 

Do you use zucchini noodles? What do you make? 

Zucchini Noodle Pasta Bowl

Author: Judee Algazi
Serves 2  

Prep Time: 8-10 minutes 

Cook Time: 5 minutes 

Ingredients:

6 cups of zucchini spirals (about 2 medium/large zucchini)

1/2 cup of water

2 cups of your favorite spaghetti sauce

1 can of black beans, drained

1 cup of firm tofu, cubed (leave out if you don't like tofu)

Optional seasonings: hot pepper, salt, pepper, cumin, vegan parmesan cheese, black olives, capers, etc. 

Directions: 

In a large skillet, add water and zucchini spirals. Cook over high flame for about 1 minute stirring. Add salt and cracked pepper. Add spaghetti sauce, beans and tofu. Mix together and cook on a medium high heat about 4 more minutes watching that it doesn't burn. Add optional seasonings and or toppings and serve. 

Other Zucchini Noodle  Recipe Links: 

 Zoodles in Avocado Pesto Sauce

 Zoodle Noodle Soup 

Zoodles in Chunky Eggplant Pasta Sauce

My Notes: 

1. Purchase a hand crank spiralizer and follow directions for making zoodles. It is very easy and takes minutes. 

2. Zucchini spirals should be stored in sealed glass container for 2-3 days. 

3. I use 365 (whole food brand) spaghetti sauce. They have one that is in a jar and is fat free and very low calorie- tastes great.