Low fat and more protien...

Pasta dishes can be transformed by the addition of sauces. Traditional ingredients include olive oil, garlic, Onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, and fresh basil. Many classic sauces, such as cheese, pesto, and Bolognese, are high in fat and calories. The following are ideas for creating tasty low-calorie dishes. All pastas are not equal. Egg noodles contain protein, but also fat. Toss pasta with fresh, diced tomatoes and herbs.

· Use half of the oil, cheese and nuts in pesto recipe, while increasing the basil and garlic. Add white wine if the sauce is too dry.

· Pure vegetables in blender or food processor, simmer them with herbs and spices and toss with spaghetti or another pasta.

· When making a cream sauce, substitute low-fat milk or evaporated skim milk for the cream.

· Toss a pasta salad with dressing made from nonfat yogurt or sour cream instead of regular sour cream or mayonnaise.

· Combine pasta with beans, lentils or other legumes to create a high protein vegetarian meal.

· Instead of a buttery cheese sauce, toss pasta with a broth and sprinkle it lightly with grated parmesan or Romano cheese.

· Add vegetables instead of meat to a light tomato sauce.