Sweet and naturally creamy, this mash is a great substitute for regular mashed potatoes. I love to serve it along side fish, so you’re cashing in on vitamin E as well as tons of vitamin A from the mash.

I devised this recipe as an alternative to the average, more caloric party appetizer. Compliment the juicy texture of zucchini by combining it with a light layer of salty, flavorful tapenade. It can be assembled ahead and popped in the oven while you are serving your guests drinks.

Za’tar is a dried herb mix that is popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. Za’tar is usually made by grinding hyssop leaves into a powder, then mixed with other ingredients such as toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and sometimes cumin.

Cabbage and noodles is an Eastern European staple. This one is high in protein with the addition of cottage cheese. Eat this dish in late fall or winter when cabbage is prevalent. The added fresh lemon will keep away the sniffles!

I tasted this elegant, rich quiche while traveling in France. I’ve lightened this version by substituting with some low-fat dairy products. It’s a healthier option for celebrations or holidays and if you need a change from the traditional Thanksgiving dishes, this is a great substitution.

Korma and Madras curries are different variations of dried Indian spice combinations. Traditionally, all great Indian cooks take whole spices, toast them, and grind their own freshly roasted curry powder. For convenience sake, you can purchase the powder pre-made. Korma usually contains a mixture of spices like coriander, aniseed, cumin, cinnamon, star anise, and cloves. It has a mild, savory flavor with a touch of sweetness. Madras has added heat from dried chilies and usually contains coriander, turmeric, cumin, and fennel.

Traditional fettuccini is oozing with fat from heavy cream, but this version is light and high in protein from the yogurt. Toss in grilled chicken and peas to make it a one-pot meal!

Edamame or fresh soybeans are packed with low-fat protein and vitamins. This salad is especially good during warm weather or served alongside a flaky piece of white fish. You can find frozen edamame in the freezer isle in organic and health food stores.

Baked in ramekins, these creamy mounds of eggplant unmold easily, a sure-fire hit for your next dinner party when you serve them on salad plates with extra sauce.

Sage is a very strong herb when used fresh, but its flavor mellows when sautéed in olive oil. The Italian call sage cooked in butter, “black butter” and serve it over pasta or meat.