For all the benefits that pasta brings, including a good source of energy, the sauce is often the culprit in ruining an otherwise low fat feast. Traditional fettuccine has a whopping 15-20 grams of fat per serving. In the new age version below, sour cream has been replaced with yogurt and high fat cheeses with fat-free forms to create a heart healthy version of this classic dish.

8 oz. fettuccine style noodles
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. all purpose flour
1/2 cup chicken broth (canned broth, bouillon, stock or base)
1 tsp. basil
1/2 cup plain yogurt or fat-free sour cream
2 tsp. fat-free Parmesan cheese
 
Cook pasta in boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until slightly tender (al dente). Drain. Whisk together flour, garlic and broth in microwave safe bowl. Heat until broth begins to bubble, about two minutes. Using a microwave safe casserole dish, add sauce to pasta with basil. Toss well to mix. Stir in sour cream or yogurt. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Microwave this mixture for two minutes on high. Transfer to warm platter.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 273
Fat: 1 gram

Try adding 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms to the broth mixture before cooking for a savory variation. Serve with fresh broccoli and fresh fruit.