Subscribe now

Pasta Always Good Fuel For Running Machines

Merri Lou Dobler Correspondent

Believe it or not, it’s that time of year again: Bloomsday entry forms are being distributed starting this very day.

Whether you’re a jogger or a corporate cup speedster, it’s time to start planning for the running event of the year.

If you’re just a little bit out of shape, or if you’re looking for some companionship while you stay in shape, there are Bloomsday training groups tailored to meet your fitness needs.

Training clinics are offered by Holy Family Hospital/Group Health Northwest (482-2356), the YMCA (838-3577) and the YWCA (326-1190). These groups are led by enthusiastic, dedicated runners who want you to have a fun, safe Bloomsday.

Consider what you’re fueling your body with, too. Pick up a copy of Nancy Clark’s “The New York City Marathon Cookbook,” an inspiring cookbook with some great photography, enticing recipes and a plethora of practical nutrition tips that will interest any runner.

While training for Bloomsday, try a pasta dish with a light sauce as an evening meal after your workout.

Pasta with Clam Sauce is a lowfat recipe (20 percent of calories from fat) that’s got just the right amount of flavor for a satisfying meal. Round out the menu with a fruit or vegetable salad, bread or rolls and a light dessert to satisfy the sweet tooth.

Let’s get ready for Bloomsday!

Pasta With Clam Sauce

Adapted from “The New York City Marathon Cookbook” (Rutledge Hill Press).

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 teaspoons crushed garlic

1 6-ounce can chopped clams

1 8-ounce bottle clam juice

Black pepper to taste

Dash crushed red pepper

1 pound pasta, cooked

1/4 cup chopped parsley, optional

In a saucepan heat the oil and saute the onion and garlic until tender.

Pour in the clams and clam juice. Season with black and red pepper to taste.

In a serving bowl pour the sauce over the pasta. Toss with parsley as desired.

Variation: Add 8 ounces of nonfat sour cream instead of the clam juice for a white sauce.

Yield: 4 servings.

Nutrition information per serving: 525 calories, 12 grams fat (20 percent fat calories), 86 grams carbohydrate, 19 grams protein.

The goal of Five and Fifteen is to find recipes for which you can do the shopping in five minutes and the cooking in about fifteen. Merri Lou Dobler, a registered dietitian and Spokane resident, welcomes ideas from readers. Write to Five and Fifteen, Features Department, The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 2160, Spokane, WA 99210.