Many of us don’t like zucchini in the first place, but nutritionists and chefs suggest that if prepared a little differently it can become one of your favourites. Nutritionist Pooja Makhija recently shared a zucchini meatball recipe on her Instagram handle and also shared its health benefits. Zucchini is classified as a fruit but is often considered a vegetable. If you have been avoiding zucchini, then this recipe is for you. 

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Ingredients:

One cup (220 gm) zucchini

One cup bread crumbs

Two eggs

One teaspoon garlic

One-fourth cup of cilantro

One-fourth cup processed cheese

One teaspoon chilli flakes

One teaspoon mixed herbs

Salt and pepper

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Recipe 

Take a mixing bowl to add grated zucchini, bread crumbs, eggs, cilantro, processed cheese, salt and pepper to taste, chilli flakes, and mixed herbs. Mix well. Make small balls from the mixture and place them on a baking tray. Bake for 10-15 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius. Prepare tomato onion gravy and add these balls into the gravy. Serve hot with fried rice or spaghetti.

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Health benefits of zucchini meatball:

Rich in several nutrients

Zucchini contains several vitamins, minerals and plant-based compounds. According to experts, one cup (220 gm) of zucchini contains 17 calories, 1 gm protein, less than 1 gm fat, and 4 gm of carbohydrates.

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Contributes to healthy digestion

Zucchini is rich in water and fibre, which promote healthy digestion and reduce your risk of constipation and symptoms of various gut disorders.

May reduce blood sugar level

Zucchini contains fibres that may increase insulin sensitivity, control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

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Improves heart health

It is rich in potassium, carotenoids, and fibre which may lower blood pressure and cholesterol and reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

Promotes eye health

Zucchini contains manganese, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins A and C, which are essential nutrients for healthy eyesight and which also reduce the risk of age-related eye issues.