After a few months on a diet vacation I'm back on the wagon. I've said it before, but this time I'm sticking to a plan that works for me - healthy eating with some extravagances sprinkled in. My philosophy of substitutions not sacrifice is really my favorite recipe for success. Changing out a few indulgent ingredients for more sensible ones can make all the difference in the world.
I spent some time with my family over the weekend and my brother shared his spaghetti recipe - swapping out his beef for turkey and spicing things up with some Thai peppers has enabled him to trick his palate into thinking he's having the full-fat version of a favorite dish. I took that same idea and applied it to my pasta salad. Usually covered in high-fat mayo and filled with empty carbs, this side is a no-go for anyone looking to get healthy. But opa! Did you know that Greek yogurt makes a great replacement for creamy condiments like sour cream or mayo?
Spiking the yogurt with spicy Italian dressing, using whole wheat pasta and loading in the veggies will have you licking your plates (instead of throwing them on the floor). So next time you're trying to lighten things up give Greek yogurt a try. Hate spending money on the store-bought variety? Making your own Greek yogurt is really simple, just search online for the steps (there are usually less than 4) and be your own kitchen goddess!
Greek yogurt pasta salad
Ingredients
3 c whole wheat pasta
1/4 c plain Greek yogurt
2 TBS light Italian or Caesar dressing
1/2 c bell pepper
1/2 c tomato
6 large pitted black olives, minced
salt & black pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions
- Whisk together yogurt and dressing - I use a creamy variety, but anything on hand will do
- Chop bell pepper & tomatoes into similar-sized pieces - 1/2 inch - and mince black olives
- Pour yogurt mixture over pasta and vegetables and fold to incorporate
- Refrigerate before serving
- Make this salad your own by adding diced chicken, deli ham or your favorite vegetables