This dish is the quintessential veggie wonderland of flavor and is based on one of my all-time favorite pasta dish from The Cheesecake Factory (Evelyn’s Favorite Pasta). Back in the days before I was GF, this popular pasta dish was a frequent favorite of mine.
That’s why I had to re-make it into an even healthier grain-free dish that everyone will enjoy, whether they’re living grain-free or not! In fact, it’s so tasty, Paleo Parents asked me to participate in their Cheesecake Factory Paleo Recreation Recipe Roundup where they’re sharing some of the best grain-free versions of favorite dishes from the Cheesecake Factory menu.
The combination of sundried tomatoes and kalamata olives with artichoke hearts and asparagus is a real show stopper! And it’s even more delicious as leftovers, as the flavors become even more intense after they’ve had a chance to meld! For an even heartier dish, simply serve it alongside a perfectly grilled chicken breast.
For those of you taking the Whole30 Challenge, I’ve got great news – this dish is Whole30-friendly too! So get out your spiralizer and get ready for a mouthful of fabulous flavor!
Making zoodles (zucchini noodles) literally takes just seconds. All you need is a spiralizer and you’re ready to not only make zucchini noodles, but so many other great veggie noodles as well. Be sure to check out my How To Spiralize Photo Tutorial for easy step-by-step instructions.
It’s no secret that I have a blast transforming our favorite pasta dishes into zoodle creations since these dishes really up-the-ante when it comes to our daily intake of wholesome veggies. Plus, as the only grain-free girl in a house-full of grain lovin’ guys, changing out noodles for zoodles makes it a whole lot easier for me – and a whole lot more nutritious for all of us!
How to Spiralize in 3 Easy Steps!
If you’re new to spiralizing, be sure to check out “How to Spiralize in 3 Easy Steps” (a helpful photo tutorial), along with my some of my other favorite zoodle recipes, such as Stir Fry Veggies Zoodles and Pan Seared Balsamic Chicken with Pesto Zoodles. YUM!
Remember, whether you’re GF or not, replacing pasta with zoodles is a tasty and healthy way of getting more wholesome veggies on your family’s plate for even greater nutrition!
Enjoy and be sure to check out the other delicious grain-free Cheesecake Factory recipe makeovers over at Paleo Parents.
Ingredients
- 3 medium to large organic zucchini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 5-6 cloves of garlic, sliced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup fresh asparagus tips
- 1 cup chopped artichoke hearts
- 8 whole sun dried tomatoes in olive oil, roughly chopped (plus oil, see instruction)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, cut in half
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Using a spiralizer with the small-hole blade attachment, make zucchini noodles; set aside. (For step-by-step instructions on how to make zoodles, be sure to check out my How to Spiralize in 3 Easy Steps Photo Tutorial.)
- Heat a large sauté pan (or wok) over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, onion and garlic. Sauté until onion starts to soften a bit (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add broccoli, asparagus, artichoke hearts, sun dried tomatoes and about 1-2 tbsp of the sun dried tomato oil. Toss veggies well to thoroughly coat. Cover pan and allow to steam about 2 minutes.
- Then add the basil, olives and seasoning. Sauté 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the zucchini noodles and toss well to combine. Cover and allow to steam for a minute or two, until zucchini noodles reach desired texture. If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water, then cover to allow for more steam.
- Divide among bowls and enjoy! Serve with a side of grilled chicken or steak for an even heartier meal.
Notes
Time-Saving TIp: You can spiralize the zucchini noodles up to 3-4 days in advance. Simply store in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Same goes for the other veggies in this dish. That way, you're all ready to go to make a quick and healthy meal!
Life After Whole30 Recipe Variation: If you're NOT doing Whole30 and you're not dairy-free, feel free to sprinkle on some fresh grated Parmesan.
I may have missed it, but when do I put in the artichoke hearts? I love your zoodles stir fry…have cooked for my family three times! I am excited to try the saute! Your meal plans are life savers for me! Thank you!
Oh my goodness. LOL! I forgot to include that ingredient. I just fixed the recipe, thank you! The artichoke hearts are added along with the broccoli and asparagus. See update in recipe. Thank you so much for taking the time to point out this oversight. I am so appreciate to have another set of eyes! 🙂 And thank you for your kind words. So glad you and your family are enjoy the recipes and meal plans. Blessings, Kelly 🙂