Start by warming the olive oil in a spacious skillet over a medium flame. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes and wait until they emit their spicy aroma.
Turn down the flame to medium-low. This is the perfect time to stir in the tomato paste and fresh tomatoes, along with the oregano and garlic powder. A pinch of salt and pepper can be added according to your taste preferences. Allow the mixture to simmer gently until the sauce slightly thickens, which should take around 20 minutes. Don't forget to stir every now and then to ensure even cooking.
Meanwhile, transform the zucchini into noodles by using a spiral slicer. Aim for thin, long strands, and cut them down to manageable lengths of about 10-12 inches with kitchen scissors. Lay these noodles on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to draw out any moisture. Setting them aside helps in ensuring they don’t turn soggy when cooked.
In another large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat before adding the garlic. Sauté until it turns a golden brown, which should take around 4-5 minutes. Once achieved, use a slotted spoon or fork to remove and discard the garlic, reducing the heat to medium.
Now, introduce the zucchini noodles into the skillet. Spend about 2 minutes sautéing them, making sure to use tongs to gently turn them over so that they warm up evenly. Season with salt and pepper as deemed necessary.
After removing the skillet from heat, merge the zucchini noodles with the previously prepared warm arrabbiata sauce. Execute this step gently to ensure the noodles are well-coated but still retain their structure.
Transfer the saucy noodles to a platter. Elevate the dish with a garnish of sliced basil and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving to add a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance.
Notes
Spiralizing Zucchini: For the best texture, choose medium to large zucchinis. Their size makes them easier to handle and spiralize, and they're less likely to become mushy when cooked.
Sauce Consistency: If you find your Arrabbiata sauce too thick, don’t hesitate to thin it out with a little bit of water or vegetable broth. Add it slowly, stirring constantly, until you reach your desired consistency.
Avoiding Soggy Noodles: To prevent your zucchini noodles from releasing too much water and becoming soggy, make sure to pat them dry after spiralizing. Cooking them for a short duration also helps retain their crunch.
Balancing Flavors: Taste your sauce as you cook. If it's too spicy, a little bit of sugar or honey can help balance the heat. Similarly, if it's too acidic, a pinch of baking soda can neutralize the excess acidity without altering the taste dramatically.
Garnish: Garnishing with fresh herbs not only adds a pop of color but also enhances flavors. Don't limit yourself to basil; consider parsley, cilantro, or even mint for a unique twist.