Low-Fat White Sauce
A light, creamy white sauce with garlic and basil, perfect for pasta or vegetables, suitable for those seeking a low-fat, flavorful addition to their meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the evaporated skim milk until hot.
- Add the flour to the hot milk and whisk to combine.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
- Stir in chopped garlic, basil, and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, you can increase the flour slightly, but be sure to whisk thoroughly to prevent lumps. If you don't have skim evaporated milk, you can substitute with low-fat milk and a bit of cornstarch for added thickness. For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice. This sauce works well in dishes like lasagna or as a base for creamy soups.
Serving Suggestions
This low-fat white sauce is versatile and pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, over pasta, or as a base for a light cheese sauce. Consider serving it with a fresh salad or alongside dishes like Irene'S Apple Cobbler for a well-rounded meal. It can also be used in casseroles or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid separation. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help restore its creamy texture. If the sauce thickens too much, thin it out with a bit of water or additional milk.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat White Sauce contains roughly 62 calories, with 4g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat gently to maintain its consistency. If you plan to use it later, consider undercooking slightly, as it will thicken more upon cooling.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Freezing is not recommended for this sauce as it may separate when thawed. If you have leftovers, it's best to store them in the fridge and use them within a few days for optimal flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of Parmesan?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy, making it suitable for vegetarian recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).