Roasted Summer Squash

I love roasting fresh summer squash and zucchini from the farmers market.  Great as a side, added to pasta or in an omelet.

3-4 medium sized squash or zucchini, cut into   quarter sized pieces
1/2 onion
green pepper
drizzle of olive oil
Your spices of choice.  I love garlic, cumin and chili powder

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Roast veggies for 40-60 minutes or until preferred tenderness.

Steel Cut Oatmeal Bars

These are perfect to make for the week and then eat on the go.

3 cups water
1 cup milk, I preferably use soy or almond milk
2 Tbsp brown sugar
3-4 Tbsp cinnamon
dash of salt
1 1/2 cups steel-cut oats
1/4 cup raisins
1/4-1/2 cup sugar free applesauce
flax seed

In a large saucepan, bring water, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt to boil over medium high heat.  Watch closely because it tends to foam up and boil over.  Stir in the oats and fruit as soon as it begins to bowl. Reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally until it thickens, about 20 minutes.  At this point, add in any nuts, flax seed, or applesauce you choose to include.

Spray casserole dish with cooking spray.  Spread evenly into dish. Cover and refrigerate.  I usually make half a batch per week, 6 servings.  When you get ready to serve, place in microwavable safe bowl.  Place 1-2 Tbsp water or milk over oatmeal and microwave for 2 minutes, stirring half way through.

Easy Tomato Sauce

This quick and easy sauce is great on pasta, grilled veggies, fish and eggs.  I put this on EVERYTHING!

1/2 yellow onion, diced
2-4 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 Tbsp olive oil
2-3 cups rough chopped tomatoes
basil, to taste
oregano, to taste
red pepper flakes, to taste
salt, dash
balsamic vinegar, splash
sugar, pinch

Saute onion and garlic in oil until tender.  Add in chopped tomatoes and continue to cook on medium heat.  Add in spices to taste.  Continue to cook on low-med heat for 20-30 minutes or until flavors combine.

When using on pasta, I like to add fresh spinach.  Add in by the handful and let the spinach cook down for around 5 minutes or until wilted.  Enjoy!