Summer Squash Sloppy Joes

1 pound of organic ground chicken breasts (or a 12-oz package of soy crumbles)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 sweet onion, chopped fine
1 carrot, shredded
1 1/2 cups summer squash, grated (I used 2 small zucchinis)
6 - ounce can tomato paste
3/4 - 1 cup water
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
salt and pepper to taste
grated cheese (optional)
6 whole grain hamburger buns, toasted (or gluten-free buns if needed)

In a large saute pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the meat and cook 5 minutes. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, about two minutes. Add the carrot and summer squash to the mixture, mixing well and cooking another 2 minutes. Add the tomato paste and water, stirring to dissolve completely. Add the garlic, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes. Place on hamburger buns and top with cheese. Enjoy!