So I have been watching (or rather DVR-ing) "Cook Yourself Thin" on Lifetime. This show is based on the recipe book by the same title. They take favorite recipes and make them with half the calories or less. The great thing is, they use a lot of seasoning and wonderful flavors that make these dishes come alive. You can find the recipes here:
This is a healthier version of penne alla vodka, but called "Not-Ka" because there is no alcohol. I actually made it with multi grain penne and left out the red pepper flakes since I didn't have any on hand. The mixture of tomato, basil and red onion is fantastic!! Oh- I also used fresh parmesan which made a difference too. I also did NOT drizzle olive oil on before serving. I didn't feel it was necessary. Even my pickiest eater loved this!!! One more note - I don't know anything about nonfat evaporated milk so I just used regular non-fat milk.
Penne Alla "Not-Ka"
Serves 4
Calories per serving: 371
2 teaspoons olive oil, plus extra for serving
3 cloves garlic
1/2 cup chopped red onion
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes or whole tomatoes in juice, pureed in a food processor
Pinch red pepper flakes
8 ounces penne
1/4 cup heavy cream
6 tablespoons evaporated nonfat milk
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded fresh basil
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the penne.
. In a large saucepan, heat the 2 teaspoons oil with the garlic over low heat until the garlic begins to brown, about 3 minutes. Add the onion and 1/4 teaspoon salt, cover, and cook until the onion is softened, about 2 more minutes. Add the tomato, 1/2 teaspoon salt and the red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat and simmer very gently 10 minutes. Stir in the cream and evaporated milk and simmer 1 more minute.
3. Meanwhile, after the sauce has cooked 5 minutes, add the penne to the boiling water and cook until just shy of al dente, about 6 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup pasta water. Add the drained penne to the saucepan and simmer until the penne is al dente, 1 to 2 minutes, adding a little of the pasta cooking water if the mixture is dry. Stir in 1/4 cup of the Parmesan, along with the basil and black pepper.
4. To serve, divide pasta among 4 serving bowls. Drizzle each serving with 1/2 teaspoon olive oil, and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan.