The zucchini vegetable is a summer favorite of mine, and for many different reasons. You can do so much with this versatile vegetable and it tastes great in many different dishes. The latest recipe offered to those following the PS1000 diet is the Zucchini Wrapped Enchiladas, and they will not disappoint! This recipe is meant for Phase 2, and is best to incorporate while you are maintaining and supplementing a little more calories than you were in Phase 1. Aside from this specific recipe offered, whether you are eating them plain, drizzled in olive oil, in a thai dish, or even in place of spaghetti as zoodles there are many health benefits you can take advantage of while consuming zucchini.
Zucchinis are known for their mild flavor, and they are categorized as a summer squash. There is no need to peel off the skin due to the consistency being rather thin and the nutrients full. When selecting the perfect zucchini make sure the outside is a dark green color and firm on the outside. I like to choose the ones without nicks and scrapes all over them, and always wash them thoroughly before eating them. A little trick to absorb some of the water they can retain is to lightly salt them before cooking. Let them stand for 15-30 minutes before cooking them. [2] So now that we know how to choose the perfect summer squash, and prepare it what are the health benefits to eating such a delicious vegetable?
Nutritional and Health Benefits Of Consuming Zucchini’s
Did you know Zucchini’s are a prime weight loss food? I had no idea, just because I love the taste so much! They are extremely low in calories, and they give you a very full feeling among consumption. If you get hit with cravings, or just need a light snack a zucchini lightly salted with a small drizzle of olive oil is a safe bet! Other nutritional highlights regarding this amazing vegetable are its nutrients. They are loaded with: Manganese, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Folate, Potassium, Copper, Phosphorus, Omega-3, Zinc, Niacin, and Vitamin B1, B2, and B6. How is that for a nutritional profile? [3]
Naturally, when you are eating this many nutrients your body will react positively. You do not hear of may nasty side effects when it comes to eating a zucchini, and for good reason! Other health benefits include promoting men’s overall health, boost of the immune system, offer cardiovascular protection, and ward off different types of cancers that creep up. This veggie is most fresh in the summer months, but you still can reap its benefits all year long!
Simple Facts About Zucchini’s
- “One zucchini has just 25 calories (compared to a baked potato, for example, which has 130 calories).
- According to World’s Healthiest Foods Nutrition info, nutrients and vitamins found in zucchini can help prevent cancer and heart disease.
- A zucchini has more potassium than a banana.
- Biggest is NOT best. The most flavorful zucchinis are small- to medium-sized.” [4]
Next time you are at the grocery store, or looking to plant veggies in your garden, don’t forget about zucchini’s! They can be used in a variety of dishes, they are easy to grown, cheap to purchase, and will not let you down in regards to flavor!
Resources
Show Comments (5)