Zucchini Noodle Caprese

In the world of culinary delights, few combinations evoke the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer quite like a Caprese salad. This Italian classic, typically featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, has been a staple on tables around the globe. But what if you could elevate this beloved dish into a delightful, gluten-free meal? Enter the Zucchini Noodle Caprese Delight. This innovative recipe transforms traditional pasta into a healthy, spiralized zucchini alternative, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying take on the classic.

Discover the vibrant flavors of summer with Zucchini Noodle Caprese Delight, a creative twist on the classic Italian salad! This gluten-free recipe transforms traditional pasta into spiralized zucchini, offering a light and nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Combining fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy dressing, this dish is perfect for warm days or any occasion. Easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it's a delightful way to enjoy a healthy lifestyle!

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Ingredients

2 large zucchinis, spiralized into noodles

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves of fresh garlic, minced)

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:

- Use a spiralizer to create noodle-like strands from the zucchinis. If a spiralizer is unavailable, a vegetable peeler can be used to create long, flat ribbons. Transfer the noodles to a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let them rest for 15-20 minutes. This step helps to draw out excess moisture.

Make the Dressing:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder (or minced garlic), and a good pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the dressing. Whisk the mixture until well combined.

Combine the Ingredients:

- After the zucchini noodles have drained, gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Add the noodles to the bowl containing the dressing, and toss thoroughly, ensuring each strand is evenly coated.

Incorporate Fresh Ingredients:

- Carefully fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil into the noodle mixture. Take care not to break the mozzarella too much, as a bit of chunkiness enhances the texture.

Serve:

- To present, divide the Zucchini Noodle Caprese Delight into individual bowls or plates. For an aesthetic touch, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a light splash of balsamic vinegar.

Enjoy:

- This refreshing dish can be enjoyed immediately as a vibrant salad or chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a delicious cold option!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Presentation Tips: A sprinkle of additional basil and a light scattering of cherry tomato halves on top create visual appeal. Serving on a white plate can beautifully contrast the vibrant colors of the ingredients.