Are you aware that by replacing your processed grains with greens you can enjoy a lot of variety and improve your health? Did you know that you can enjoy spaghetti squash as a pasta alternative? Author Lauren Delaney shares some great nutrition alternatives in “A Small Victory.“
Written by Lauren Delaney
I recently stumbled upon a bit of trivia that I found to be quite interesting. As I have become more interested in nutrition I have gradually become more creative and expanded my horizons when buying food. Trips to the grocery store become a little adventure in and of themselves! Spaghetti squash has become one of my favorite dinner foods as a substitute for Italian noodles or spaghetti. This veggie was apparently pretty much unknown in America until World War II. Food shortages left many households in short supply and “Victory Gardens” popped up all over the place. As a result this vegetable grew in popularity.
As we are all becoming more aware of the benefits of reducing processed carbohydrates in our diet we are seeking out alternatives to these foods. Vegetables are really a great resource and offer tremendous health benefits as well. By replacing your processed grains with greens you can enjoy a lot of variety and improve your health. This is a win-win situation if you ask me. Spaghetti squash is a personal favorite of mine. It’s certainly okay to still enjoy pasta on occasion, but I really enjoy spaghetti squash as a pasta alternative.
There are so many great recipes online and in magazines that choosing to be healthy does not have to be boring. It’s easy to get stuck in a food rut especially on week nights when you cannot imagine having the energy to whip up a big dinner after a long day at work. I also love spaghetti squash because it is so easy to make — simply slice it in half and put it in the oven. I sometimes have to put mine in the microwave for a minute or two to soften it a little bit before cutting.
Place the squash on a cookie sheet with some oil, salt and pepper and cook for 45 minutes to an hour at 400 degrees. You then use a fork to pull out the pasta-like strands. Serve with your choice of meat, veggies and sauce. This quick and easy meal is naturally gluten free, suitable for those following the popular Paleo diet and waistline friendly.
Identity Magazine is all about empowering women to get all A’s in the game of life — Accept. Appreciate. Achieve.TM Every contributor and expert answer the Identity 5 questions in keeping with our theme. As a team, we hope to inspire and motivate ourselves and inspire you to get all A’s.
What have you accepted in your life that took time, physically or mentally?
Patience – and I am still working on it!
What do you appreciate about yourself and within your life?
Accepting that not being perfect is ok.
What is one of your most rewarding achievements in life? What goals do you still have?
A successful career in marketing. I would love to own my own company eventually.
What is your not-so-perfect way? What imperfections and quirks create your Identity?
I tend to be obsessive and a perfectionist, but I’ve learned to let things unfold a little more as I’m getting older.
How would you complete the phrase “I Love My…?”
I love my determination and resourcefulness. It’s come to my rescue many times!
