Bolognese with hidden veg

Nutritional Benefits

1. Rich in fiber: The hidden vegetables in this Bolognese provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
2. High in vitamins and minerals: The variety of vegetables in this recipe add a range of vitamins and minerals to your diet, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
3. Antioxidant-rich: The vegetables used in this Bolognese are packed with antioxidants that help fight off harmful free radicals in the body.
4. Low in calories: By replacing some of the meat with vegetables, this Bolognese is lower in calories compared to traditional recipes, making it a healthier option for weight management.
5. Heart-healthy: The inclusion of vegetables in this Bolognese helps reduce the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol, promoting heart health.

Ingredients

1. 1 pound lean ground beef
2. 1 onion, finely chopped
3. 2 carrots, grated
4. 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
5. 1 zucchini, grated
6. 2 cloves of garlic, minced
7. 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
8. 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
9. 1 cup beef broth
10. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11. 1 teaspoon dried basil
12. Salt and pepper to taste
13. 1 tablespoon olive oil
14. 1 pound whole wheat spaghetti

Processing Steps

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are softened.
2. Add the ground beef: Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Combine the ingredients: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
4. Cook the spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Serve: Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked spaghetti and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips and Recommendations

- To make this recipe even healthier, you can use whole wheat spaghetti or substitute it with zucchini noodles.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables in the Bolognese sauce. You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutritional value.
- Make a double batch of the sauce and freeze the leftovers for quick and easy meals in the future.
- Serve the Bolognese with a side of mixed greens or a fresh salad to add more fiber and nutrients to your meal.
- Don't forget to season the sauce to your taste. You can add additional herbs and spices, such as thyme or red pepper flakes, for extra flavor.
- When shopping for ingredients, make sure to choose organic and locally sourced vegetables whenever possible to maximize the nutritional benefits of the dish.
- Enjoy this nutritious Bolognese with hidden vegetables as a family-friendly dinner that will please both kids and adults alike.

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