Dietary denial is not part of the American dream! And now, thanks to internationally renowned food writer Jeanne Jones, Americans can have their cake and eat it too-- Devil's Food Cake with Fudge Frosting, that is. It's just one of more than 200 beloved comfort foods-- from Deviled Eggs and Barbecued Beef Sandwiches to Creamy Potato Salad
Casseroles became popular during the Great Depression because they were economical. Their appeal continued into the 1940s because they were convenient. With more women working outside the home during World War II, a one-dish meal that could be prepared ahead of time and reheated for supper was indeed a blessing.
Makes 6 servings
8 ounces no-yolk noodles
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
4 ounces mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) fat-free, reduced-sodium condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese
1 can (12 ounces) water-packed chunk light tuna, rinsed,drained, and flaked
1/2 cup crushed reduced-fat snack crackers
1/4 cup (1 ounce) grated Parmesan cheese
Preheat the oven to 350 F. Coat a 2-1/2 quart or 13" x 9" baking dish with nonstick spray. Set aside.
In a large covered pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add the noodles and cook according to the package directions. Set aside.
Meanwhile, melt the butter or margarine in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes, or until tender. Add the soup, Monterey Jack, yogurt, scallions, black pepper, celery seeds, and red-pepper flakes. Mix well. Add the broccoli, tuna, and noodles. Fold to coat with the sauce. Spoon into the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the crackers and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the noodle mixture. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly browned
Homestyle Makeover
BEFORE: Each serving contains: 1,038 calories; 41 g. fat
AFTER: Each serving contains: 622 calories; 14 g. fat
Per serving: 622 calories, 947 mg. sodium, 14 g. fat, 76 g. carbohydrates, 52 mg. cholesterol, 47 g. protein
