I love summer for so many reasons and at the top of my list is picking up fresh produce from our local farmers market.
Every weekend, my kids and I explore the beautiful colors of the market. We pick up our family favorites, some new fruits and veggies to try and the kids always get to pick something on their own.... last week it was a big head of cauliflower (#momwin!).
Stocking up on produce at your local farmers market is a great way to support your local farmers and community. It's also a great way to support the environment by cutting back on the transportation normally required for your food to travel - which also makes local produce more affordable and the freshness and flavors are out of this world!
Among our favorites is zucchini.
Zucchini fuels your body with fiber, vitamin K, potassium and folate and by adding zucchini into your diet you're supporting a healthy heart, a healthy waistline and healthy blood sugar levels.
It is a must have in our house.
It plays a variety of delicious roles and finds its way perfectly into so many dishes.
I'm sharing some of my favorite zucchini recipes with you to add to your rotation - the perfect breakfast (especially for those busiest mornings!), an under 20-minute dinner and a simple and delish side dish to accompany any meal. Enjoy!
And don't forget to leave a comment and tag me on Instagram @wellnesswithabbeyh - I love seeing your creations!
Zucchini Bread Overnight Oats (serves 1)
Ingredients:
1/2 c. rolled oats
1 T. chia seeds
1/4 c. shredded zucchini
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1/2 t. cinnamon
1/2 c. unsweetened almond milk
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients together well in an air-tight container, place lid on container and refrigerate over-night (or for a minimum of 4 hours for best results). Stir and top with your favorite fruit, nuts or seeds - Enjoy!
Zoodle Bolognese (serves 4)
Ingredients:
2 T. olive oil
1 lb. ground turkey
1 T. minced garlic
2-3 large zucchinis or pre-packaged zoodles
2 large carrots, finely chopped
3 stalks of celery, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce (15 oz.) - I'm a fan of Raos homemade
Instructions:
Cook ground turkey in pan until cooked through. While the turkey cooks, make the zoodles with your zoodle maker (if not using store bought). Remove turkey from pan and set aside. Add olive oil to pan along with onion, celery and carrots, cook 2-3 minutes then add garlic and cook another 1-2 minutes. Add turkey back to pan and stir in marinara sauce. Toss in zoodles until mixed. Serve and enjoy! Vegetarian or just looking to save more time? Leave out the turkey and go for a completely plant based meal
Simple Roasted Zucchini (serves 4)
Ingredients:
2-3 large zucchini (or 4 medium), cut into 1-inch chunks
1 T. olive oil or avocado oil
1 t. garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
OPTIONAL: sprinkle of turmeric
Instructions:
Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees F. Cut zucchini into 1-inch chunks and add to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with olive oil or avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper and optional turmeric. Place zucchini on a lined baking sheet and roast in over for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, turning half way. Remove from oven, let cool and serve with your favorite lean protein and whole grain for a complete meal!
If you haven't checked it out yet - don't miss my Green Giant Smoothie recipe that incorporates steamed and frozen zucchini for the most perfect creamy green start to your day - enjoy!
