During the summer, I’m generally pretty good about eating well. I love all the fresh produce that’s abundant. This time of year, though, I crave comfort foods – anything warm and saucy.

These absolutely hit the spot – and I was pretty excited that each sandwich only clocked in at 249 calories. It’s nice to have guilt-free comfort food!

Zesty Sloppy Joes
(adapted from Taste of Home August/September 2003)
Serves 8

1 lb. lean ground beef
1 large green pepper, chopped
1 can (14-1/2 oz.) petite diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce
1/2 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 t. sugar
1 t. celery salt
1 t. onion salt
1/2  t. paprika
1/4 t. cayenne pepper
2 bay leaves
Hamburger buns

In a Dutch oven, cook beef and green pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook over low heat for 30 minutes.

Cook, uncovered, 30-40 minutes longer or until thickened. Discard bay leaves. Serve 1/2 cup of meat mixture on each bun.