Mac & Cheese, lightened up

I'm working on perfecting my healthy mac & cheese. I think I'm getting closer with this one. I will probably adjust it a little next time I make it.

1 package steam-in-bag broccoli/cauliflower mix
4 oz whole-grain pasta
3 wedges Laughing Cow light original cheese
1 Tbsp butter
1 Tbsp flour
3/4 cup skim milk
2 oz sharp white cheddar, shredded
pinch of nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste

Cook pasta to al dente. While pasta is cooking, steam veggies in microwave according to package directions.

Remove veggies when cooked, and separate cauliflower into a small bowl. Mash with a fork and stir in Laughing Cow cheese wedges.

Drain pasta when done, and leave in colander. In the saucepan you cooked the pasta in, melt the butter. Sprinkle flour over melted butter and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute then whisk in milk, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until it starts to thicken, then stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Stir in cauliflower, pasta and broccoli to combine. Eat up!

If you want to have a hot dog on the side, make it a low-cal one ;-)

Makes 4 servings.

Easy Dessert: Grilled Fruit!

Fruits are so naturally sweet, you don't have to do anything to them to grill them to perfection. Just brush them with a light oil, like vegetable oil, and throw them on the grill for a few minutes on each side. Fruits this works well for: pineapple, peaches, nectarines, plums (really any stone fruit).

Tonight's dessert was grilled nectarines (in the grill pan on the stove over medium heat) over a small scoop of ricotta cheese, then drizzled a little honey over it all. DELISH!!! And about as healthy as desserts come!