Convenience Foods Take on a New Meaning

Before we throw our noses up at some convenience type foods, let’s first understand the difference between highly processed foods and convenience. In my opinion there is a way to live in both worlds. I would rather have dinner on the table for my family than stop at a fast food restaurant for them.
Convenience foods are normally pre packaged. If we think pre packaged that can include hummus, zoodles and mashed cauliflower. These are foods that are “convenience foods” but are strikingly different than frozen pizza, pre made sandwiches, microwave dinners, canned pasta, hot dogs and chips.
So why the stigma of buying a more convenient dinner? It’s what we always associate a convenience food with? In the past convenience also meant added salt, sugar and fat. In today’s grocery stores convenience is taking on a whole new meaning.
At my local supermarket the produce section offers spiralized zucchini and carrots, Already pulsed cauliflower and many pre cut vegetables and fruits. These items would fall under the “convenient” category but also are a great healthy option that can be ready on the table in minutes.
Next time you are running late instead of stopping at your local fast food restaurant take a look in your local supermarket. It’s a way to keep yourself on track and your family healthy and happy.

Zucchini Pasta
2 Zucchini
2 tbsp coconut oil
3 tomatoes, diced
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic minced
⅛ cup fresh basil, minced
⅛ cup fresh oregano, minced
Add beans or sausage for additional protein

Take your spiralizer and spiralize zucchini. In a pan heat oil and add onion, saute for one minute. Next add garlic and tomato saute for another 4 -5 minutes add in basil and oregano, cook for another 2 minutes. Lastly toss in the zucchini making sure the sauce coats thoroughly, cook for 2 minutes if you like a bite in your vegetables. Parmesan cheese for garnish.