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Vegetable Noodles with Sesame and Bell Peppers

This dish features spiralized vegetables, primarily carrots and zucchini, cooked quickly in a hot skillet to preserve their crunch and vibrant color. Topped with toasted garlic, smoky bell peppers, and a drizzle of sesame oil, it offers a delightful mix of textures—from tender to crisp—with a glossy, appetizing appearance. The process emphasizes tactile engagement and the natural beauty of fresh vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large carrots peeled and spiralized
  • 2 large zucchini peeled and spiralized
  • 1 cup bell peppers thinly sliced, mixed colors
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil for flavor and shine
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari, for umami
  • 1 tablespoon oil preferably toasted sesame oil
  • a handful fresh herbs cilantro or basil, chopped

Equipment

  • Spiralizer with julienne blade
  • Large skillet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Use your spiralizer with the julienne blade to create delicate, uniform noodles from peeled carrots and zucchini. Set aside in a small bowl.
  2. Toss the spiralized vegetables with a pinch of salt and let sit for about 10 minutes; this helps draw out excess moisture and keeps them crisp.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then add a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil. Swirl to coat the pan.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden, filling the air with a warm aroma.
  5. Gently add the spiralized vegetables to the skillet, stirring quickly to coat them with oil and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they just start to soften but still retain crunch and shine.
  6. Stir in the thinly sliced bell peppers and a splash of soy sauce, cooking for another 2 minutes until they soften slightly and release a smoky aroma. The noodles should shimmer and look glossy.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed, adding more soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Remove from heat once the noodles are tender yet firm, with a slight jiggle and fragrant aroma.
  8. Transfer the noodles to serving bowls and sprinkle generously with chopped fresh herbs for a burst of freshness and color.
  9. Enjoy immediately, appreciating the glossy sheen, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and the warm aroma of toasted garlic and sesame oil.