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Kid-Approved Vegetarian Courgetti: Zucchini Noodles That Taste Like Spaghetti

With carbs creeping up in our family meals, I've turned back to courgetti—zucchini noodles my kids call 'zucchini spaghetti.' It's a hit for everyone, and this version mimics real spaghetti so well that even the pickiest eaters dig in.

Typically, I spiralize zucchini with garlic, roasted tomatoes, and pine nuts—a combo I love but the kids tolerate less. That's why I created this spaghetti-style courgetti: it looks and tastes just like the real thing, making healthy eating effortless.

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Courgetti with the Taste of Spaghetti

As a busy home cook, I've perfected this recipe—it's as simple as regular spaghetti, just swap pasta for zucchini.

Ingredients for the Courgetti (Serves 4)

  • 2 courgettes (zucchini)
  • 1 red bell pepper and 1 yellow bell pepper
  • Vegetarian minced meat
  • 1 box of mushrooms
  • 1 onion
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • A few cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh basil, to taste
  • Jar of spaghetti sauce (or make your own with fresh tomatoes)
  • 1 teaspoon garden herbs broth powder

The Basics of Courgetti

For this red sauce version, 2 zucchini serve 4 generously. I use my Lurch spiralizer for perfect noodles—hand-grating works too, but the tool makes it quick and fun.

Preparing the Courgetti

Chop bell peppers, onion, mushrooms into bite-sized pieces, halve cherry tomatoes, and mince garlic. Sauté garlic and veggies in a large wok until softened. Add vegetarian mince and cook through.

Stir in spaghetti sauce (or pureed fresh tomatoes) and heat gently. Chop fresh basil and add it in, then season with vegetarian garden herbs broth powder.

Trust me—the kids won't notice the swap. The courgetti has more satisfying bite but packs way more nutrition.

Read also: other tasty simple dinner recipes can be found here