Summer Squash Noodle Bowl with Feta Crumble
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors that celebrate the season’s bounty. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer is the Summer Squash Noodle Bowl with Feta Crumble. This light yet satisfying meal is packed with fresh vegetables and topped with creamy feta cheese, making it a delightful choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time in the sun. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Summer Squash Noodle Bowl is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. It caters to various dietary needs, whether you’re vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. The spiralized yellow squash and zucchini serve as a fantastic base that mimics pasta, making it a great low-carb option. With the addition of cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta, each bite bursts with flavor. Plus, it’s visually appealing, making it perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying on a casual weeknight.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Summer Squash Noodle Bowl with Feta Crumble:
- 2 medium yellow squash, spiralized into noodles
- 1 zucchini, spiralized
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Directions
Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish.
Step 2: Add the spiralized yellow squash and zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss them gently with the garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes. The goal here is to soften the noodles slightly while still keeping a bit of crunch. You want them to be tender but not mushy.
Step 3: Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the tomatoes to warm through and slightly soften, releasing their juices into the mixture. This adds an extra layer of flavor to your dish.
Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat and season the noodle mixture with salt and black pepper according to your taste. Drizzling the juice of half a lemon over the top will brighten the flavors and give it a refreshing pop.
Step 5: Finally, top your noodle bowl with the crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped basil. This final touch adds a creamy texture and a lovely herbaceous note that complements the zucchini and squash beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables for this noodle bowl?
Absolutely! You can mix and match other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers. The key is to keep the spiralized or thinly sliced texture to maintain the noodle-like bite.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the noodles and sautéed vegetables ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat and add the feta and basil just before serving.
Is the recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is quite suitable for meal prep. You can portion it out into containers and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the basil and feta right before reheating for best results.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavors with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
What can I serve this recipe with?
This noodle bowl can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or served as a side dish to grilled proteins like chicken, shrimp, or fish. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or some crusty bread.
Conclusion
This Summer Squash Noodle Bowl with Feta Crumble is a delightful and nutritious dish that captures the essence of summer in each bite. With its quick preparation time and versatility, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying a solo meal or serving guests, this colorful bowl of goodness will impress and satisfy. So grab your spiralizer and start creating this refreshing and healthy meal today!
