Zucchini Noodles with Meat Sauce

• 4 medium zucchini (spiralized into noodles)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (85% lean)
• 1 can (28oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• salt and pepper salt and pepper
• ¼ cup fresh basil (for serving)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How to Make It

1. 1

   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook onion until softened, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.

2. 2

   Add ground meat and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. 3

   Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

4. 4

   While sauce simmers, salt the zucchini noodles lightly and let sit 5 minutes. Pat dry with a towel — this draws out water so they don't make your sauce watery.

5. 5

   Either toss zucchini noodles raw with the hot sauce (they'll soften slightly from the heat), or sauté in a separate pan with a drizzle of oil for 2–3 minutes if you prefer them warmer. Top with fresh basil and Parmesan if using.