How to Make the Perfect Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Chickpea Sauce
Mediterranean · Easy · 25 minutes min · 2 servings
A refreshing and vibrant low-calorie meal featuring spiralized zucchini tossed in a spicy chickpea sauce, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Why this recipe works
This Zucchini Noodles with Spicy Chickpea Sauce recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 25 minutes minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 300 calories with 12g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 16 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1 can chickpeas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup spinach
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Spiralize the Zucchini
Use a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chickpea Sauce
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chickpeas, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spinach
Incorporate diced tomatoes and spinach into the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until spinach wilts.
Step 4: Mix in Zucchini Noodles
Add zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Stir in lemon juice.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the dish and garnish with parsley, basil, and nutritional yeast.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- zucchini → spaghetti squash
- chickpeas → black beans
- nutritional yeast → parmesan cheese
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not draining the chickpeas properly before adding them to the pan.
- Overcooking the zucchini noodles, making them mushy.
- Skimping on the spices, which can make the dish bland.
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 300 calories, 12g protein, 45g carbs, 7g fat, 10g fiber.
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