
Only 2-Point Zucchini Pancakes Recipe
Introduction
Zucchini pancakes are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy vegetables, providing a nutritious option for any meal. This Weight Watchers (WW) friendly recipe is designed to be low in points while still delivering great taste and texture. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these zucchini pancakes are easy to make and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- A handful of fresh dill, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 200 ml of low-fat kefir
- 150 grams of whole wheat flour
- Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini
- Grate the Zucchini: Begin by washing and grating the zucchinis finely. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess liquid. This step is crucial to ensure the pancakes are not too watery.
- Chop the Dill: Finely chop a handful of fresh dill and set it aside. Dill adds a wonderful, fresh flavor to the pancakes and pairs well with the zucchini.
Step 2: Making the Batter
- Mix the Eggs and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, beat the two eggs. Add the chopped dill, salt, and pepper to taste, and mix well.
- Incorporate the Kefir: Pour in the low-fat kefir and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the Flour: Gradually add the whole wheat flour to the mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more kefir to reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
- Add the Zucchini: Fold the grated and drained zucchini into the batter. Ensure the zucchini is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Final Mix: Give the batter a final mix to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. The batter is now ready to be cooked.
Step 4: Cooking the Pancakes
- Prepare the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Using a non-stick skillet and cooking spray can help reduce the amount of oil needed, keeping the points low.
- Cook the Pancakes: Spoon a portion of the batter onto the skillet, spreading it out gently with the back of a spoon to form a pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the pancakes are golden brown and cooked through. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the pancakes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Warm: These zucchini pancakes are best enjoyed warm, straight from the skillet. They make a great meal on their own or can be served with a side salad or a dollop of low-fat Greek yogurt.
- Garnish Options: Garnish with additional fresh dill or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor. You can also serve them with a light dip made from low-fat yogurt and herbs.
Nutritional Information (Per Pancake)
- Calories: Approximately 70 calories
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 9g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- WW Points: Approximately 1-2 points per pancake, depending on the specific brands and substitutes used.
Tips and Tricks
- Zucchini Preparation: Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated zucchini to prevent the batter from becoming too watery.
- Cooking Heat: Cook the pancakes on medium-low heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning. This allows the pancakes to become crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Batch Cooking: These pancakes can be made in batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a non-stick skillet or microwave before serving.
- Freeze for Later: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked pancakes. Place a piece of parchment paper between each pancake to prevent them from sticking together. Reheat in the oven or skillet for best results.
Additional Information
Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Incorporating zucchini into your diet can help support overall health and wellness. Using whole wheat flour instead of regular flour adds additional fiber and nutrients, making these pancakes a healthier option.
Kefir is a fermented milk drink that is high in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. It also adds a slight tanginess to the batter, enhancing the flavor of the pancakes.
Conclusion
These Weight Watchers Zucchini Pancakes are a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy vegetables in a fun and tasty format. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they make a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re following the Weight Watchers program or simply looking for a healthy and satisfying dish, these pancakes are sure to impress. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete and balanced meal.