Spicy South Beach Diet Macaroni and Cheese

Instructions

• 1

  Heat the oven to 400ºF.

• 2

  Bring a large saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds.

• 3

  While pasta is cooking, in a large nonstick skillet melt vegetable oil spread over medium heat. Add flour and cayenne, reduce the heat to low, and whisk constantly until flour is incorporated, about 2 minutes.

• 4

  Add half-and-half to the skillet, bring to a simmer over low heat, and cook, whisking frequently, until blended and thickened, 3 to 5 minutes. Add cheese, basil, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt; stir until blended. Add pasta and stir until coated and warmed, about 1 minute; remove from the heat.

• 5

  Lightly coat an 8" by 8" baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer macaroni and cheese to the baking dish.

• 6

  Sprinkle tomatoes on top and season with pepper. Bake until hot and bubbly, about 10 minutes. Place under the broiler and broil until the top is lightly browned, 3 to 4 minutes. Serve hot. 

Each serving is a 1-1/4 cup.