How do you make healthy versions of your favorite pasta dishes?

Making healthy versions of your favorite pasta dishes can be easy and delicious with a few simple substitutions. First, opt for whole-grain pasta instead of white pasta, which has more fiber and nutrients. Next, swap out heavy cream-based sauces for lighter tomato-based sauces or pesto made with olive oil and fresh herbs. You can also add in lots of vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers to boost the nutritional content of your dish. Another option is to use alternative pasta options like zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash to replace traditional pasta.

For creamy dishes like mac and cheese, try using pureed butternut squash or cauliflower in place of cream or cheese. Greek yogurt can also be a great substitute for heavy cream or sour cream in many dishes. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of cheese in a recipe or choose a lower-fat cheese like feta or Parmesan. Finally, using lean proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp instead of fatty meats like sausage or bacon can also make your pasta dishes healthier and more balanced.