Zucchini Stix and Carpaccio di Zucchini

Savory Zucchini Stix

  Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
3 tablespoons seasoned dry bread crumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg white
1 teaspoon reduced-fat (2%) milk
2 small zucchini (4 ounces each), cut lengthwise into quarters
1/3 cup spaghetti sauce, warmed

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray baking sheet with cooking spray, set aside.
2. Combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese in shallow dish. Combine egg white and milk in another shallow dish, beat with fork until well blended.
3. Dip each zucchini wedge first into crumb mixture, then into egg white mixture, letting excess drip back into dish. Roll again in crumb mixture to coat.
4. Place zucchini sticks on prepared baking sheet; coat well with cooking spray. Bake 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with spaghetti.              (Makes 4 servings.)

Nutrients per Serving: 69 calories, 9g carbohydrate, 1g dietary fiber, 4g protein, 2g fat, 1g saturated fat, 6mg cholesterol, 329mg sodium.

Helpful Hint: Refrigerate zucchini, unwashed, in a perforated plastic bag for up to 5 days. Zucchini are available all year with their peak season from July to September.

Carpaccio di Zucchini

3/4 pound zucchini, shredded
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1 tablespoon prepared Italian dressing
4 French bread baguettes, sliced in half lengthwise
4 teaspoons soft spread margarine
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1. Preheat broiler. Place zucchini in medium bowl. Add almonds and dressing; mix well. Set aside.
2. Place baguette halves on large baking sheet, spread evenly with margarine. Sprinkle with cheese. Broil 3 inches from heat 2 to 3 minutes or until edges and cheese are browned.
3. Spread zucchini mixture evenly on each baguette half. Serve immediately.                (Makes 4 servings.)

Go-with suggestions: Spaghetti with tomato sauce.

Nutrients per Serving: 180 calories, 6g carbohydrate, 2g dietary fiber, 6g protein, 15g fat, 0g saturated fat, 4mg cholesterol, 305mg sodium.

(Recipes taken from Low-Carb Snacks & Appetizers, Favorite All Time Recipes.)