When it comes to swapping veggies into recipes for more nutritional content or low-carb or low-sugar alternatives, today we have more choices than ever. You can make your own, buy them pre-made in the store, and even get them to-go from some restaurants. But which ones are the best? As a heavy food swapper, I have a few ideas for you.
Konjac noodles--or shirataki noodles--are one of my favorite noodle swaps. These yams are super low calorie and full of fiber. If I don't have those available or I want a different texture, my favorite swap is spaghetti squash for noodles. Just cut one in half, roast it and scoop it out. Voila--you've got "noodles" ready for any sauce you like. They work very well with white sauces, in my opinion.
For fries, I love rutabegas for swaps--they are the closest thing you'll get to a fried potato. For sauteed potatoes on the stove, radishes work really well, believe it or not! And to sub in a veggie for something sweet, I like to just char my broccoli and cauliflower for some nice, carmalized flavor in the oven.
Ruby Tuesday's squash has always been my favorite, but some notable options while dining out include Noodles & Company and Crazy Bowls & Wraps. Both have pretty good zoodles, or spiralized zucchini noodles. Cauliflower swaps are often tasty too, but many aren't that much healthier. If all else fails, you can ask for steamed veggies or broccoli as a swap-in for noodles--one of my favorite healthy hacks! I've even done this with cheese dips instead of tortilla chips when I really want something decadent.
What are your favorite veggie swap-ins? Which ones do not work for you, and which ones do you think are the most unique? Share them in the chat.