We continue our conversation with Ali Maffucci from Inspiralized.com. This week she talks about picking out vegetables to spiralize and what recipes work best.
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What do you look for when purchasing vegetables to become noodles or rice?
Ali: There are a few guidelines for selecting the right vegetable for spiralizing – I actually have a YouTube video on this, here. Here are the general guidelines:
- The vegetable cannot be hollow, seeded or have a tough core.
- The vegetable must be at least 1.5" in diameter for best experience.
- The vegetable should be at least 2" long for best experience.
- The vegetable must have a firm, solid flesh (no squishy, juicy fruits or veggies.)
There is one exception: eggplant! Eggplant can’t be spiralized, although it meets the above “requirements.”
What type of recipes work best when spiralizing?
Ali: All types of recipes! Spiralizing is extremely versatile! The only recipes that aren’t really spiralizer-friendly are drinks (can’t do much, but add a garnish!) Also, dessert recipes are tough, because, vegetables aren’t exactly dessert-friendly.
What has been your biggest flop with spiralizing?
Is there one vegetable or fruit you want to use but couldn’t make it work?
Ali: Eggplant! I desperately wanted eggplant to work. It’s a shame!
How do you know what flavors will work well with certain dishes such as a tomato sauce?
Ali: It’s all about flavors. I think what makes a good recipe developer is their awareness of flavor. I usually think of the sauce or “fillings” (i.e. for a noodle bowl) or protein first and then I decide which type of vegetable will go best, based on the flavors of those elements. I also consider the texture of the vegetable. For example, I wouldn’t pair a cucumber noodle dish with a tomato sauce – it would be too watery.
Come back next week when Ali talks about introducing veggie noodles to your family and about her exciting news: a new cookbook and her very own branded Inspiralizer! Check out the delicious recipes Ali developed for us using Tuttorosso Tomatoes! Five new recipes using spiralized veggies! Get the recipes here. Don't forget to enter for your chance to win one of many great prizes in our Inspiralize the Spring giveaway!