Lo-Cal Copper Pennies
A light, flavorful side dish featuring sweet carrots, peppers, and onions in a tangy tomato-orange sauce, perfect for health-conscious meals and versatile enough for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer carrots, onion, bell pepper, tomato sauce, orange juice, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, salt, pepper, and sugar in a covered saucepan for 10 to 15 minutes, or until crunchy tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in sugar substitute.
- Serve warm or refrigerate and serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. You can substitute fresh orange juice with canned if needed, but fresh will give a brighter flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the brown sugar or sugar substitute to your liking. For a more robust dish, incorporate some diced tomatoes or even some chopped parsley for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
These Lo-Cal Copper Pennies are great served warm as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a refreshing twist, serve them chilled as a salad option at picnics or barbecues. Consider pairing with a slice of Fried Toast for a delicious contrast in textures, or alongside a light green salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Copper Pennies contains roughly 210 calories, with 2g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2061mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to stir well before serving, either warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any sugar substitute you choose is also vegan-friendly. It's a perfect addition to any vegan meal plan or gathering.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
While fresh vegetables provide the best texture and flavor, you can substitute with frozen ones if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dish to avoid a watery consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).