I want my classes to be about more than just working out.
To me the benefits of coming together as a group of people and experiencing the fun of Zumba is just as important as the hundreds of calories we burn.

I want my students to know that a healthy diet is not only important for managing weight, but is fundamental to good physical, psychological and spiritual health.

So I’ve been passing on some recipes that are easy, delicious and healthy.

This one is a great healthy alternative to fettuccine alfredo or mac-and-cheese.

It is really light and delicious and the Goat Cheese make it classy… perfect for impressing company.

(and we all know that living in Traverse means you get lots and lots of company in the summer!)

Orzo Primavera with Goat Cheese Sauce

Cook:

• 1/2 lb. dry orzo

Saute in 2 T. olive oil; add:

• 2 cups broccoli
• 2 cups asparagus, chopped
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 TB. garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

Add; stir in:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup frozen peas
• parboiled orzo
• 1 1/2 cups pasta water

Stir in; season:

• 4 oz. goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 T. chopped fresh parsley
• salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the orzo.  Cook the orzo for 5 minutes, reserve 1 1/2 cups pasta water, then drain; set orzo aside.

Saute broccoli, asparagus, onion, and bell pepper in oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.  Add the garlic and pepper flakes, and cook for 1 minute.

Add the tomatoes, peas, and reserved pasta water, bring to a simmer, and cook 2-3 minutes.

Stir in the goat cheese and parsley, then season with salt and pepper.

Per 1 1/2 cups:  299 calories, 29% calories from fat; 10g total fat; 42g crab.; 63 mg sodium; 6g fiber; 13g protein

recipe taken from Cuisine at Home