Glazed Bell Peppers and Snow Peas

Ingredients:

• 3 cups snow peas, trimmed
• 2 tbsp. water
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp. granular sugar substitute
• 1  tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 large red bell pepper, cut into short strips
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Makes 4 Servings

1.  Place the snow peas and water in a large microwaveable bowl. Cover with a vented plastic wrap and microwave on high power for a total of 5 minutes, or until crisp-tender; stop and stir after 3 minutes. Drain.
2. Bring the vinegar and sugar substitute to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes, or until mixture is reduced to 2 tablespoons. Remove from the heat.
3. Warm the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the bell pepper and garlic and cook for 2 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Add the snow peas, salt, pepper and the vinegar glaze. Toss to mix.

WW POINTS VALUE: 1 pt.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the South Beach Diet Cookbook. This colorful side dish goes great with any protein dinner any night of the week because it's quick and easy. The balsamic vinegar with a touch of the granular sugar substitute give this  dish and extra taste of sweet zing. I used broccoli in place of the snow peas and the dish was just as delicious. I also added a touch of sesame oil to the dish for a more Asian flavor. If you're unsure of what kind of balsamic vinegar to use in this dish, I highly recommend visiting The Imperial Olive in Williamsburg, VA. You can visit www.TheImperialOlive.com for more info.