Asian Bok Choy Slaw

This slaw is perfect as a side for a variety of dishes, especially burgers and other grilled meats. The flavors are bold, yet not over powering or overwhelming. And the best part is the unbelievably low calorie count!

Calories: Only 35 per serving (each serving being 3/4 cup)

Servings: 4-6

1/4 cup rice vinegar

1 tbsp sesame oil

2 tsp sugar

2 tsp dijon mustard

1/4 tsp salt

6 cups bok choy, thinly sliced (including more than half of the white stem)

2-3 cups carrots, shredded

2-3 scallions/green onions, thinly sliced

2 handful cilantro, chopped

1-2 handful roasted peanuts, crushed

Make a dressing with the first 5 ingredients and keep in the fridge. About 10 minutes before ready to serve, combine the other ingredients and then the dressing. Mix well and serve.

Note: Even though I prefer it crunchy, you can mix the dressing with the veggies ahead of time and refrigerate. The flavor will be just as good, but it will lose its crunchy texture.

Warm Zucchini and Tomato Salad

On a day when you want to have something light, yet filling for lunch or a substantial side for dinner, this recipe is for you. Its simple, yet so delicious and juicy. If you're not a big zucchini fan, you can make it with just one layer of tomatoes and it will turn out just as good.

Makes: 4-6 side servings

Ingredients:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1-2 garlic cloves, chopped finely

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt, to taste

Black Pepper (freshly crushed), to taste

1/2 tsp dried oregano

2 medium sized zucchinis, sliced into 1/2 inch circles

2 medium tomatoes, sliced into 1/2 inch circles

1/2 white onion, thinly sliced

Handful chopped fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 200 C (abut 400 F). Take the first 6 ingredients and mix them well in a bowl. In an oven proof, glass dish place the zucchini and brush half the olive oil and lemon dressing over it. Then, place the tomatoes on top and brush the remaining dressing over them. Garnish generously with onion and chopped parsley. Place in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Serve hot or warm.

Note: You can add 1/4 cup of fresh grated parmesan cheese to the top before putting it in the oven. The baking time would probably be reduced so as not to burn the cheese.