How to Cook Light Fettucini Alfredo

Light Seafood Fettucini Alfredo

Understanding a few basic techniques makes fettucini alfredo surprisingly easy to prepare. In its traditional form, Alfredo sauce consists of butter, cream, Parmesan cheese and black pepper. It was created by Alfredo di Lilio for diners in his restaurant, Alfredo all'Augusteo, in 1920s Rome. With a few strategic substitutions, you can cut the fat in half and still have a wonderfully rich and tasty sauce.

Things You'll Need

• Garlic Butter All purpose flour Milk Salt Neuchatel cheese Parmesan cheese Black pepper Nutmeg

Instructions

1. Boil 1 lb. of fettucini in lightly salted water with a splash of olive oil. Follow directions on pasta package for how long to cook, as times may differ; however, on average, it should take about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Cook 10 cloves of freshly chopped garlic in 1 tbsp. of butter over a low to medium heat, for one to two minutes, until lightly browned. Stir in 1 tbsp. of all purpose flour, creating a paste.

3. Whisk in 1 cup of 1 percent milk. Using 1 percent milk instead of cream dramatically cuts the fat content of the sauce while still preserving its body. Whisking gently while pouring the milk slowly helps prevent lumps and curdling of the milk. Do not allow the mixture to boil as that would change the look and consistency of the sauce.

4. Add 1 tsp. of salt and 2 tbsp. Neuchatel cheese, continuing to whisk slowly. Once the Neuchatel has melted, begin sprinkling in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, in one-quarter cup increments while continuing to whisk. Adding the cheese slowly allows it to melt and incorporate into the sauce without clumping.

5. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the pasta and toss gently until the pasta is fully coated. The sauce may appear thin, but it will continue to thicken after it is added to the pasta. Top with fresh ground black pepper. You may also add a dash of nutmeg, freshly chopped parsley, diced tomatoes or diced pimentos. These garnishes add splashes of color, as well as added flavor. Fettucini Alfredo can be served as a main dish or a side dish. It can be topped with sauteed shrimp or grilled chicken and served with a green salad.