Cheesy Zucchini Noodles with Bacon

This cheese-filled dish is the perfect way to get in some extra veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 pound zucchini (about 3 medium)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Cut the zucchini into long noodles using a spiralizer (or use 1 pound store-bought zucchini noodles). Set aside.
2. Put a baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 425 degrees F. Toss the tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil in a bowl and season with salt and black pepper. Spread on the hot baking sheet and bake until the tomatoes are slightly softened and just browned around the edges, 7 to 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat until browned and crisp, about 7 minutes. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate and wipe out the skillet. Melt the butter in the skillet and add the scallion whites and garlic; cook until softened, about 1 minute. Add the flour and stir to combine, about 30 seconds. Whisk in the milk, mustard, cayenne and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook, whisking, until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in the cheese until smooth.
4. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini noodles and season with salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring, until the zucchini is just softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Using tongs, transfer the zucchini to the cheese sauce, leaving any extra liquid in the skillet. Cook over medium heat, gently tossing until coated; season with salt and black pepper. Top with the roasted tomatoes, bacon and scallion greens.

Recipe courtesy of Food Network Magazine