Zucchini Spaghetti

Ingredients and Weight:

• Zucchini: 500 grams (about 2 medium-sized)
• Spaghetti: 500 grams (pre-cooked)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Salt and Pepper: to taste
• Fresh Basil: handful, chopped
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
• Parmesan Cheese: optional, to serve

Preparation Time: 45 minutes (including preparation and cooking time)

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Slice the zucchini into long, thin strips using a vegetable peeler or a knife. This should resemble spaghetti.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for a minute or two until fragrant.
4. Add the zucchini "spaghetti" to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to burst and release their juices.
6. Stir in the fresh basil and remove from heat.
7. Toss the zucchini mixture with the pre-cooked spaghetti.
8. Serve in bowls and top with shaved parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approx. 500-600 depending on serving size and additions.
• Carbohydrates: Depends on spaghetti serving size.
• Fat: From olive oil and optional parmesan cheese.
• Protein: From vegetables and spaghetti.

Dish Characteristics:

• Low-carb option can be made by reducing the amount of spaghetti or using whole-wheat spaghetti.
• Vegan-friendly without parmesan cheese.
• Full of flavor from the combination of garlic, basil, and cherry tomatoes.
• A creative and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

User Comments:

1. "This was a refreshing change from regular pasta dishes. The zucchini 'spaghetti' was a great idea." - John Doe
2. "The flavors were spot on! The combination of garlic, basil, and cherry tomatoes was outstanding." - Jane Smith
3. "I served this as a vegetarian option for my guests and they loved it! Definitely a keeper." - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use fresh ingredients like basil and cherry tomatoes for maximum flavor.
• If you prefer a more robust sauce, you can add a small amount of tomato paste when cooking the garlic and zucchini mixture.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more salt or pepper if needed.