Weight Loss Tip #42: Swap Pasta For Veggies

Swap Pasta For Veggies

Everywhere we look, it seems that carbohydrates are the enemy especially the processed ones. I am talking about the famous breads and pastas that taste oh so good to us no matter what the occasion. By simply switching processed carbohydrates for pasta, you are going to be saving at least 200 calories per meal and you will be getting more nutrients too! By saving 200 calories potentially at every meal (if you eat a processed carb at every meal) you will be saving an upwards of 600 calories per day! You will most definitely see gains in your weight loss if you make this simple change. This may come as no surprise to many of you, but veggies offer so much more nutrients for your body than pastas and breads (they are filling too!).

There are many ideas such as spaghetti squash, cauliflower rice, and zucchini noodles that take the place of carb heavy food favorites! See below for some delicious recipes for all three!

Zucchini Noodles

This food is taking over when it comes to fun and creativity. All you need is a spiralizer, or a simple spiral peeler and you are set to go. You can find these kitchen items at most large kitchen stores, or you can find them at specialty stores like Sur La Table, Williams and Sonoma, or Bed Bath and Beyond. The recipe below is from a website called skinnytaste.com and it is amazing!

Raw Zoodles With Pesto and Tomatoes

Skinnytaste.com

Servings: 4 • Size: 1 1/4 cups • Points +: 4 pts •Smart Points: 4

Calories: 148 • Fat: 12 g • Carb: 9 g • Fiber: 3 g • Protein: 4 g • Sugar: 3 g

Sodium: 102 mg (without salt)  • Cholesterol: 4 mg

Ingredients:

For the Pesto:

• 1 cup packed fresh basil
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/4 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
• kosher salt & pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

For the zoodles:

• 21 oz. (3 medium or 4 small) zucchinis
• 1 cup heirloom grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste

Directions:

In a food processor pulse basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper until smooth. Slowly add the olive oil while pulsing. Set aside.

Cauliflower Rice

This is a simple and easy way to create a “rice like” dish, without the extra starch and calories.

How To Make Cauliflower Rice

 Simply cut your cauliflower into small florets, and then add to a food processor and pulse. You will pulse until the veggie resembles rice, it is then ready to be tossed in a pan and cooked with other veggies and sauces of your choice. Stir-fry is the best meal, especially with this exciting new way to make rice!

Spaghetti Squash

This simple swap can make a world of difference when it comes to your dinner idea of spaghetti and meatballs! Not only is it much healthier for you, it might even be easier preparation too!

How To Make Spaghetti Squash

Slice the squash in half, and brush both sides equally with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of the squash and pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees. Place the squash side down on a baking sheet and cook for 30-45 minutes, or until the strands can easily be pulled apart with a fork. Once you take the squash from the oven, let it cool down before taking out the strands. You can then pair it with your favorite meat sauce and more veggies for a killer meal!

These simple substitutions may feel weird at first to try out, but once you get the hang of it, you will be so excited that your meals are healthier and full of more nutrients. There are an abundance of ways you can make these substitutions online, so get out there and research some fun and healthy recipes to make for family and friends!