Scrumptious Side Dishes

I'm always looking for different ways to spice up my meals, but without the added calories. Here are a few low-cal recipe ideas to add some pop to your plate. 

Parmesan Broccoli with Cherry Tomatoes

(serves 12; serving size is 1/2 cup; 25 calories per serving)

6 cups broccoli florets

16 cherry tomatoes, halved

3 tablespoons grated fresh Parmesan cheese

2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

*Steam broccoli, covered, for 6 minutes or until crisp-tender

*Transfer to large bowl and add remaining ingredients; toss gently to combine. 

Confetti Slaw with Poppy-Seed Dressing

(serves 4; serving size is 2/3 cup; 40 calories per serving)

2 tablespoons cider vinegar

1 1/2 teaspoons honey

1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill

1 teaspoon poppy seeds

1 teaspoon olive oil

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 cup thinly sliced green cabbage

1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage

1/2 cup matchstick carrots

*Combine first 8 ingredients in a bowl. Add cabbage and carrots; toss to coat. 

Asian-Style Zucchini

(serves 4; 52 calories per serving) 

1 teaspoon butter

1 large zucchini, halved lengthwise and cut into 1-inch slices

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons sesame seeds

garlic powder and ground black pepper to taste

*Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat; stir in zucchini and cook until lightly browned.

*Sprinkle with soy sauce and sesame seeds. Season with garlic powder and pepper; continue cooking until zucchini is well-coated and tender.