Zucchini and Spinach Spaghetti Marinara

Are you hanging in there, friends? This week hasn’t been an easy one. I feel like bursting out High School Musical style and singing, “We’re all in this together!” Because we are. I am here for you and I know you are there for me. At least I’m pretty sure a few of you are there 😉

With the help of some healthy whole grain carbs, you’re about to feel much, much better about this week. I mean, come on. How could you not feel better with some of this in your life. I’m about to eat my computer screen just looking at this again. 

Look what happens when you twirl a bite of pasta out from the center of your plate. You get a spaghetti wreath! Cute, right? Now that will put a smile on your face. No? Just me? Okay.

Bread, pasta and carbs in general have developed a bad reputation among many Americans these days. But like everything in life, moderation is key. There is nothing wrong with a bowl of pasta every once in awhile, so I don’t know why I feel the need to justify it right now. But I just want to say that by adding some veggies to the dish, it can be just as healthful a meal as any, especially if you use whole grain noodles. 

Today I give you permission, in fact I urge you, to make yourself a bowl of hot, steamy pasta and savor every last healthy bite. 

Zucchini and Spinach Spaghetti Marinara 

Makes 3-4 servings

Ingredients:

1/2 box whole grain spaghetti

1/2 tablespoon olive oil

1 small zucchini, shredded

1/4 medium yellow onion, sliced

1 cup marinara sauce

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoons extra spicy seasoning

2 cups baby spinach leaves 

Salt and pepper to taste, if desired 

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside. 

2. Meanwhile, add olive oil to large skillet and place on stovetop over medium heat. When hot, add shredded zucchini and sliced onion. Saute until vegetables become tender and brown, about 4-5 minutes. Add marinara sauce and spices to the skillet and stir. Cook 2-3 minutes, then turn heat down to low. Add spinach and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything to evenly coat with the sauce. Let cook 2-3 more minutes, until spinach just begins to wilt. Remove from heat and serve immediately.