A new spin on some old favorites

We all have our classic favorite meals: peanut butter and jelly, fish and chips, or spaghetti and meatballs. The only problem is, these comfort foods are usually loaded with trans fat and calories. But what if you could get your favorite dishes in a healthy helping?

Below are two of our favorite classics, with a healthy spin, from the L A Lite Cookbook. Not only do they contain a good dose of protein and calcium, but they're favorites the whole family can enjoy.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

3 Tbsp. butter
3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups skim milk
Freshly ground pepper
8 oz. shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
1 lb. macaroni
Nonfat cooking spray

Over medium heat, melt butter in medium saucepan. Add flour and stir until pasta forms.

Remove from heat and add the cold milk a little at a time, stirring well with each addition.

Return to heat once all the milk is added and the mixture is smooth. Stir over medium heat until sauce comes to a boil and slightly thickens. Pepper to taste.

Remove from heat and add the shredded cheddar. Stir until cheese melts. Preheat broiler. Meanwhile, cook macaroni in rolling boiling water according to package directions. Drain and toss with cheese sauce.

Transfer to a medium baking dish that has been coated with nonfat cooking spray. Place under broiler until browned and bubbly, about 3-4 minutes.

Servings: 8



Meatloaf

1 lb. lean ground sirloin
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup egg substitute
2 Tbsp. dried onion
1 tsp. low-sodium Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp. Dijon Mustard
1/4 tsp. lite salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper
1 tsp. garlic powder
3 Tbsp. ketchup, divided
Nonfat cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together all ingredients, reserving 2 Tbsp. of ketchup. Form into loaf.

Coat loaf pan with nonfat cooking spray. Place meatloaf in pan. Spoon remaining ketchup on top of loaf and spread evenly.

Bake about 45 minutes or until desired doneness. To be sure meat is fully cooked, insert thermometer and bake until internal temperature reaches 160 degrees.

Servings: 4