Fruit and Veggie Substitutes for Any Craving

With  all of the wonderful varieties of fresh, colorful produce out there, swapping your usual meal ingredients for fruit or veggie substitutes can be a breeze! Switch up your menu by adding a delicious and nutritious twist to favorite meals, whether you’re craving pasta or planning a fiesta night. Double Up on these items at your favorite Double Up Arizona markets, and swap your way to new and creative mealtimes. 

​ITALIAN NIGHt

Everyone enjoys a big bowl of pasta from time to time, especially when it’s paired with juicy in-season tomatoes and fresh herbs. Here are some nutritious and creative pasta alternatives to put a twist on your Italian dinner. Bellissimo!

Zucchini Noodles or “Zoodles” are a great alternative to traditional pasta. They are fresh, flavorful, and are a great source of protein, vitamins and dietary fiber. The easiest way to make zoodles is to use a vegetable spiralizer or cheese grater. You can also look for them in your grocery store’s produce section if you don’t have time to make it to your favorite farmers market. When fully cooked, zoodles taste almost like al dente spaghetti.

Squash Noodles are another vegetable-based pasta alternative. They are packed with vitamins and nutrients, and you can find tons of squash varieties at Arizona markets. Like zoodles, squash noodles are made with a spiralizer, but can also be found pre-made in the produce section. Try using a few different varieties to add a fun pop of color to your meal!
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Quinoa Pasta is naturally gluten-free and contains a ton of nutrients like iron, calcium and fiber. Look for some to purchase with your SNAP card at your local market, then use your Double Up Food Bucks to buy the tomatoes, veggies, or herbs for a perfect “pasta” delight.
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FIESTA NIGHT

Here in the Southwest, there is no shortage of vibrant and delicious options when it comes to preparing a fiesta night. Whether you’re craving tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and more, there are so many ways to swap typical ingredients with produce.

Black beans can take the place of meat in any of your favorite recipes. Eat them whole, mashed, or even refried! If you crave more traditional refried beans, Pinto beans can be cooked in a crockpot with onion and a little salt and pepper. Instead of frying them with lard, mash them up and add a small amount of olive oil.

Lettuce wraps can be a crispy, fresh alternative to tortillas for tacos and burritos. Try different varieties to find your favorite blend of flavors and textures.

Sweet potato chips can amp up the flavor while keeping the satisfying crunch you crave in nachos or chips and salsa. Grab some at your favorite market, thinly slice them, and bake them in the oven. You can coat them in olive oil and your favorite herbs or spices for a delicious, veggie-packed side dish or main course.

Do some experimenting and taste-testing, and you're sure to find a healthy, delicious alternative your family loves. With Double Up Food Bucks, you can bring home twice as many fresh fruits and veggies to switch up mealtime favorites any day of the week!