With winter coming, I’ve been thinking about some of my favorite comfort foods, but made in ways with less calories that are more filling, more tasty and nutrient dense. One meal I’m envisioning is a healthier macaroni and cheese that quickly fills one up without needing such excessive portions. The key has to be to add more fiber and lean protein along with the right spices.

Some ideas I have:

• Whole wheat pasta or lentil pasta
• A minimum of two lb of spinach, so at least a 2 to one ratio to the pasta for lots of fiber
• Tomatoes run through the food processor with Italian spices
• Onions
• Hot peppers to make you fill full quickly
• Lentils, maybe peas or white beans as a protein source
• Good quality cheddar shredded and skim milk hardened with corn starch
• Zero fat cottage cheese in the cheese mixture for proteins
• Corn starch mixed with parmesan cheese for a topping, cooked in the broiler
• The right mixture of seasonings

With all this, is it still macaroni and cheese? It’s debatable but it could be delicious food and nutrient dense while still providing the pleasure of macaroni and cheese.