Lightened Up Sundried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo
Try this Lightened Up Sundried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo recipe.
Try this Lightened Up Sundried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- fresh basil
- garnish (optional)
- freshly grated parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon dry basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dry oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dry parsley
- 1 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoons oil from sundried tomatoes in oil jar
- 1 1/2 cups milk (i use lowfat)
- 2 oz. 1/3 less fat cream cheese cubed
- 1/3 cups shredded mozzarella
- 16 oz. fettuccine noodles
- 1/2 cup sundried tomato halves drained and finely chopped
- 1/8-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
- Carbohydrate 5.11334578415722 g
- Cholesterol 18.8626666741058 mg
- Fat 5.95853657519968 g
- Fiber 0.3046255460276 g
- Protein 10.4518217742971 g
- Saturated Fat 3.46826863366988 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (86g)
- Sodium 592.802971628498 mg
- Sugar 4.80872023812962 g
- Trans Fat 0.348132016910382 g
- Calories 117 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook fettuccine in salted water according to package directions. Strain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons sundried tomato oil over medium heat in a large pan. Add sundried tomatoes, garlic and red pepper flakes and saute for one minute.
- Sprinkle in flour and continue to cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Turn heat to low and stir in chicken broth.
- Whisk cornstarch with milk and add to pan along with tomato paste, basil, parsley, onion powder, oregano, salt and pepper.
- Bring sauce to a simmer and continue to cook and stir until sauce is thickened (but not overly thick), approximately 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted, followed by Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Keep heat on low until fettuccine is done cooking, then stir in mozzarella cheese until melted then fettuccine until evenly coated.
- Taste and season with additional salt, pepper and/or red pepper flakes to taste.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan Cheese, and fresh basil if desired (optional).
A Lighter Take on a Classic: My Sundried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights often involve a mad dash between school pick-ups, work deadlines, and the never-ending cycle of homework and bedtime stories. But that doesn't mean I'm willing to compromise on flavorful, satisfying dinners. This Lightened Up Sundried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo is my go-to recipe when I need a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty meal that the whole family will love. It’s a lighter twist on a classic, perfect for those evenings when you crave comfort food without the guilt.
The key to this recipe's success lies in its balance. The richness of the Alfredo sauce is beautifully complemented by the bright, tangy notes of sundried tomatoes. The addition of fresh basil adds a touch of freshness, cutting through the creaminess and preventing the dish from becoming overly heavy. I've also reduced the fat content by using low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream cheese, making it a guilt-free indulgence. This recipe is incredibly versatile too; you can easily adapt it to your own preferences. Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or substitute spinach or kale for a boost of greens. The possibilities are endless!
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights:
This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and easily. The ingredients are readily available, and the entire process, from start to finish, takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The preparation is simple and straightforward, even for those who consider themselves novice cooks. You can easily prep the ingredients ahead of time, and then throw everything together in under half an hour when you’re ready to eat. This is what I appreciate most! The simplicity without sacrificing flavour is amazing.
More Than Just a Meal: A Moment of Peace
For me, cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it's a form of self-care. It's a time when I can disconnect from the demands of the day and focus on something creative and nourishing. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the satisfying sizzle of garlic in the pan – these small acts bring a sense of calm and purpose to my busy life. And the shared meal itself is a cherished moment of connection, a time to gather with my family and appreciate the simple pleasures of good food and good company.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pasta:
For perfectly cooked pasta, always use plenty of salted water. The salt seasons the pasta from the inside out, resulting in more flavorful noodles. Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, with a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and unappetizing. And don’t rinse the pasta after cooking! The starch on the pasta helps the sauce cling to the noodles, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dish.
Variations to Explore:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- Protein Power: Add grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or pan-fried tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Creamy Dreamy: For an even richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of low-fat milk, but be mindful of the increased calorie count.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese – try a blend of Asiago and Pecorino Romano for a sharper, more robust flavor.
This Lightened Up Sundried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo isn’t just a recipe; it's a testament to the fact that healthy eating and busy lifestyles can go hand in hand. It's a quick, easy, and delicious meal that satisfies both my cravings for comfort food and my need for a nutritious and manageable dinner solution. I encourage you to try it; I’m sure it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen too!
