Lighten up!

Comfort food and cravings can get you trouble!  I've been working extra hard to keep my pregnancy weight gain in check; therefore, I have to lighten up old recipes for a delicious and healthy new rendition.

Recently, a t.v. commercial got me salivating for some good 'ole lasagna.  I made a few simple changes to make a much leaner version.

First, I substituted the cheese for their low fat counterparts.  I used ground turkey instead of beef and I added extra vegetables: spinach, mushrooms, and onions.

Thaw a bag of frozen spinach, place in a strainer and squeeze out all the excess water.

Dice up some red onion and slice up some mushrooms.

In the meantime, boil a large pot of salted water and cook the lasagna noodles per the instructions on the box.

In a large saute pan, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil.  Saute the red onion and some minced garlic.  Crumble in the ground turkey, with some red chili flakes and brown.  Add in the mushrooms, spinach, and a splash of red wine of you like.  When everything is stirred together, add in your favorite spaghetti sauce, salt and pepper, and simmer on low.

Spray a 9 x 13 baking dish and create layers with the noodles, turkey mix, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese.

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Bake at 375 until golden and bubbly.

This meal is very affordable and crowd pleasing.  Serve up a green salad on the side and you've got dinner for 10 people for less than $20.

There is always an easy way to lighten up your old favorites.  Make a few simple substitutions for a way healthier alternative.  

What recipe would you like to lighten up?