With their slightly caramelized flavor, roasted vegetables make a wonderful spread. Serve with pieces of toasted whole-grain pita rounds or baked tortilla chips.

　　

Ingredients

serves 4, 1/4 cup per serving

　　Olive oil spray

　　1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise

　　1 medium yellow summer squash, halved lengthwise

　　1 medium carrot, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices

　　1 medium onion, quartered

　　2 ounces asparagus, trimmed

　　2 medium Italian plum (Roma) tomatoes, halved

　　2 medium garlic cloves

　　2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

　　1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, crumbled

　　1/8 teaspoon pepper

　　1 1/2 tablespoons shredded or grated Parmesan cheese

　　

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

　　

Step 2

Lightly spray a large baking sheet with olive oil spray. Arrange the zucchini, squash, carrot, onion, asparagus, tomatoes (with the cut side up), and garlic in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray.

　　

Step 3

Bake without stirring for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender.

　　

Step 4

Put half the vegetables in a food processor or blender. Process for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, or until the mixture is the desired consistency (almost smooth but with some texture is recommended). Transfer to a medium bowl. Repeat with the remaining vegetables.

　　

Step 5

Stir in the vinegar, Italian seasoning, and pepper. Sprinkle with the Parmesan.

　　

Cook’s Tip

Step 6

You can serve the leftover vegetable spread chilled or reheated. To reheat, put in a microwaveable dish and microwave, uncovered, on 100 percent power (high) until warm.

　　

nutrition information

Step 7

(Per Serving)

　　

Step 8

Calories: 60

　　

Step 9

Total Fat: 1.0g

　　

Step 10

Saturated: 0.5g

　　

Step 11

Trans: 0.0g

　　

Step 12

Polyunsaturated: 0.0g

　　

Step 13

Monounsaturated: 0.0g

　　

Step 14

Cholesterol: 1mg

　　

Step 15

Sodium: 55mg

　　

Step 16

Carbohydrates: 12g

　　

Step 17

Fiber: 3g

　　

Step 18

Sugars: 8g

　　

Step 19

Protein: 3g

　　

Step 20

Dietary Exchanges

　　

Step 21

2 Vegetable

　　American Heart Association Quick & Easy Meals