This dish highlights an ingredient that contains essential nutrients to help keep you healthy, give you more energy, and just plain feel good about your food choices.
Ingredients
| 2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil | 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt added tomato paste |
| 2 tsp. garlic, minced | 2 tsp. dried oregano |
| 1 medium onion, chopped | 2 tsp. dried thyme |
| 2 medium carrots, finely chopped | 2 tsp. rosemary |
| 2 medium celery ribs, chopped | 2 tsp. sage |
| 1 large zucchini, grated | Sea salt, to taste |
| 1 (15-ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes | Fresh ground pepper, to taste |
| 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes | 2 c. whole wheat penne pasta, cooked |
Preparation
1. In a Dutch oven over high heat, add oil to coat bottom. Add garlic, onions, carrots, celery, and zucchini. Sauté until tender, about 3 to 5 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, paste, and water; stir to combine. Add seasonings; salt and pepper to taste. Simmer at least 15 minutes. The longer you simmer the better it tastes.
3. Serve over whole wheat penne pasta. Add cooked chicken for more protein.
Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes plus simmering
Key Ingredient: Whole Wheat Pasta
• Nutritional benefits: Good source of dietary fiber and magnesium; functions as an anti-cancer agent and promotes heart health
• Why I keep on hand: Available in a host of different shapes in sizes, widely available, and if stored properly lasts for many months
• Ideas: Toss with garlic, olive oil and low-fat cheese, serve with marinara, low-fat Alfredo, steamed veggies, as a main dish or side dish, hot or cold, whole wheat pasta is one of the most versatile ingredients
