Mushroom and Pasta in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
 Recipe created by Bob Greene, author of “The Best Life Diet”
Photo courtesy of the Mushroom Council and mushroominfo.com
 Preparation Time: 19 minutes
Total Time: 46 minutes ~ Serves: 6

16 ounces rotelle (corkscrew) pasta
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
1 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 can (13-3/4 ounces) reduced sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups zucchini, cut in 1" by 1/4" pieces
8 ounces cooked ham, reduced sodium, cut in 1-1/2" by 1/2" strips
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated


Per serving:

Calories: 408
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrate: 59g
Dietary Fiber: 6.7g
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Calcium: 82mg
Sodium: 479mg
 
Preparation:
  1. Cook pasta according to directions on package, drain and put in a large serving bowl.
    Place garlic and butter in a 12" x 8" x 2" microwaveable baking pan. Microwave on high until garlic is softened, about 2 minutes. Stir mushrooms into butter, microwave uncovered on high until mushrooms are nearly tender, about 8 minutes stirring once.
     
  2. In a cup combine chicken broth, cornstarch, and black pepper until smooth; stir into mushrooms. Microwave uncovered on high until hot, about 8 minutes, stirring once.
     
  3. Add zucchini, ham and cherry tomatoes; microwave uncovered on high until mixture thickens and boils, about 9 minutes, stirring twice.
     
  4. Stir in parmesan cheese; pour over reserved pasta; toss gently. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
    NOTES:
    Round out with a whole-grain roll and a mixed green salad with around 100 calories of dressing.