Zucchini Slices with Marinara Sauce and Fresh Basil

Zucchini Slices with Marinara Sauce and Fresh Basil

A simple way to enjoy the delicate tastes of the summer's harvest.

Healthy benefits

Zucchini is one of the very low calorie vegetables. It contains no saturated fats or cholesterol. Its peel is good source of dietary fiber that helps reduce constipation and offers some protection against colon cancers.

Tomatoes are antioxidant powerhouses and are excellent for promoting the good health of the colon, prostate, pancreas, heart and bone. They improve cholesterol profiles, combat blood clots and act as an anti-inflammatory. They even help fight diabetes and migraines. What's not to love?

Basil is also a good source of magnesium, which promotes cardiovascular health by prompting muscles and blood vessels to relax, thus improving blood flow and lessening the risk of irregular heart rhythms or a spasming of the heart muscle or a blood vessel.

Ingredients 230 calories per serving (serves 1)

7 zucchini slices
Ground black pepper
1 cup marinara sauce
5-6 fresh basil leaves

Preparation

Slice fresh zucchini and shape in half-circle on small plate. Generously add ground black pepper on the zucchini. Make a circle shape with heated marinara sauce while not completely covering the zucchini.

Note to vegan chef

You could steam the zucchini but I like it uncooked. Eggplant would also be a good option. I usually make this as a 'spaghetti swap'.

Zucchini Slices with Marinara Sauce and Fresh Basil ... yet another way to enjoy zukes!

Reference: Healthy Eating: Homemade Marinara Sauce,  Zucchini Nutrition Facts, Calorie Count

Joke of the Day:

Question: How many meat-eaters does it take to change a lightbulb?

Answer: None. They'd rather stay in the dark.