Meghan Markle’s Zucchini Pasta: A Deliciously Simple Recipe Review
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is known for her healthy lifestyle and love of simple, delicious food. One recipe that has gained particular attention is her zucchini pasta, often referred to as “Meghan Markle’s Zucchini Bolognese.” This dish is a lighter, vegetarian alternative to traditional Bolognese, packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. In this review, we’ll delve into the recipe, provide detailed instructions, and share our experience making (and devouring!) this royal-approved pasta dish.
## Why Meghan Markle’s Zucchini Pasta is So Popular
Several factors contribute to the popularity of this recipe:
* **Simplicity:** The ingredient list is relatively short and the steps are straightforward, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
* **Health:** Replacing meat with zucchini significantly reduces the fat content and adds a boost of vitamins and fiber.
* **Flavor:** Despite being vegetarian, the dish is packed with umami and savory flavors thanks to the slow-cooked zucchini and flavorful sauce.
* **Royal Endorsement:** Anything associated with Meghan Markle is bound to pique interest, and this recipe is no exception.
* **Versatility:** The recipe can be easily adapted to suit dietary preferences and available ingredients. You can add other vegetables, use different types of pasta, or incorporate plant-based protein sources.
## The Original Recipe (Inspired by Meghan Markle)
While the exact recipe Meghan Markle uses hasn’t been officially released, the internet is filled with variations based on her reported method. This recipe is a compilation of those variations, aiming to capture the essence of the dish:
**Yields:** 4-6 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 45-60 minutes
### Ingredients:
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 large onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 3-4 medium zucchini (about 2 pounds), grated or finely chopped
* 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well)
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
* Grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan alternative), for serving
### Equipment:
* Large skillet or Dutch oven
* Large pot for boiling pasta
* Grater or food processor (optional, for zucchini)
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to recreate Meghan Markle’s famous zucchini pasta:
**Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini**
* Wash and trim the zucchini. You can either grate the zucchini using a box grater or finely chop it. Some recipes suggest using a food processor for quicker grating. The key is to achieve a fairly fine texture so the zucchini melts into the sauce during cooking. Consider the texture you are going for, if you want more visible zucchini strands then grating is better, if you want the zucchini to dissolve completely then chopping is fine. If grating, lightly salt the grated zucchini in a colander and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture, preventing the sauce from becoming watery. After 20 minutes, squeeze the zucchini in your hands to remove the excess water. This step is *crucial*.
**Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**
* In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
**Step 3: Cook the Zucchini**
* Add the grated or chopped zucchini to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini has softened and released its moisture. This will take about 10-15 minutes. The zucchini will significantly reduce in volume as it cooks. If you skipped the salting and squeezing step, you may need to cook the zucchini for a longer period to allow the excess moisture to evaporate. Continue cooking until the zucchini starts to caramelize slightly.
**Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings**
* Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
* Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and the zucchini will break down, creating a richer, more flavorful sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
**Step 5: Cook the Pasta**
* While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Be sure to salt the boiling water generously – this is crucial for flavoring the pasta.
* Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. This starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
**Step 6: Combine and Serve**
* Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the zucchini sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
* Add a little of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. The goal is to create a creamy, emulsified sauce that coats each strand of pasta.
* Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative). A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add a nice finishing touch.
## Tips and Variations
* **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
* **Boost the Protein:** For a heartier meal, add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or white beans to the sauce. You can also use plant-based ground meat alternatives.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or marjoram. Fresh herbs are always a great addition.
* **Add a Touch of Creaminess:** Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, or vegan cream cheese alternative at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
* **Spice it Up:** If you like a bit more heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* **Roast the Zucchini:** Roasting the zucchini before adding it to the sauce can enhance its flavor and add a smoky element. Toss the zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
* **Use a High-Quality Tomato Sauce:** The quality of the tomato sauce will significantly impact the overall flavor of the dish. Opt for a good-quality brand that you enjoy.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
* **Add Wine:** Add a splash of dry red or white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. Let it reduce slightly before adding the tomatoes.
* **Use Fresh Tomatoes:** In season, substitute the canned tomatoes with fresh, ripe tomatoes. Core and chop the tomatoes, then add them to the sauce.
## Our Review: A Delicious and Simple Weeknight Meal
We tried this recipe, and we were pleasantly surprised by how easy and delicious it was. The zucchini melts into the sauce, creating a surprisingly rich and flavorful base. The simmering time is crucial – it allows the flavors to meld together and the zucchini to break down, resulting in a smoother, more cohesive sauce.
The salting and squeezing step for the zucchini is *absolutely essential*. We skipped it on our first attempt, and the sauce turned out watery. The second time, we followed the instructions and the difference was remarkable. The sauce was much thicker and more flavorful.
We also experimented with adding a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end, and it added a lovely creamy touch. Overall, this recipe is a winner. It’s a great way to use up zucchini, it’s healthy, and it’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. We highly recommend giving it a try!
## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 15-20g
* Fat: 10-15g
* Carbohydrates: 60-70g
* Fiber: 5-7g
*Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Conclusion: A Royal Recipe Worth Trying
Meghan Markle’s zucchini pasta is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can create incredibly delicious meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is definitely worth trying. It’s a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, grab some zucchini, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a taste of royalty!
