Sauteed Spring Vegetables

For an Asian twist, substitute soy sauce for the balsamic vinegar (be sure to adjust the salt level). You can also use red pepper flakes for a little added heat.

—BILLY HENSLEY MOUNT CARMEL, TN

PREP: 20 MIN. + MARINATING COOK: 10 MIN. MAKES: 9 SERVINGS

2 medium yellow summer squash, sliced

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

1 medium zucchini, sliced

1 small red onion, cut into thin wedges

1 cup green pepper strips

1/2 cup sweet red pepper strips

MARINADE

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/8 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1. Place the vegetables in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk the marinade ingredients. Pour over vegetables; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 hour.

2. In a large skillet, saute vegetable mixture in batches for 3-6 minutes or until crisp-tender.

PER SERVING 3/4 cup equals 82 cal., 6 g fat (1 g sat. fat), 0 chol., 139 mg sodium, 6 g carb., 2 g fiber, 2 g pro. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.