A New You Diet: Pam's Advice on Losing Weight

Broccoli and Pepper Pasta With Light Creamy Tomato Sauce

Serves 4

1 pound broccoli, cut into small florets, stems trimmed and sliced

1 large yellow bell pepper, stemmed, seeded and cut into short thin strips

Salt

12 ounces bite-size pasta: linguini, fettuccini, or spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 large garlic cloves

1/2 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes

1/2 cup dry white wine

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup evaporated milk

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra grated or shaved for topping

Prepare broccoli and pepper. Meanwhile, bring 2 quarts of water and 1 tablespoon of salt to boil in a large soup kettle. Add pasta and, using back-of-the-box times as a guide, cook partially covered and stirring frequently at first, to prevent sticking, until just tender, adding broccoli to the boiling pasta the last 5 or so minutes of cooking. Drain and return to pot.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add peppers; sauté until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant and golden, about a minute. Add wine; bring to a simmer. Add tomatoes; return to a simmer and stir in baking soda. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue to simmer until thick, 10 to 12 minutes. Add evaporated milk and simmer another 3 to 4 minutes to blend flavors. Add sauce and cheese to drained pasta; toss to coat. Adjust seasonings. Serve, sprinkling each portion with cheese.