Blue Cheese Souffle

INGREDIENTS

5 large egg whites
6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Dash ground nutmeg
Dash cayenne pepper
1 cup fat-free milk
1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
4 large egg yolks
1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar

DIRECTIONS

Let egg whites stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Coat a 2-qt. souffle dish with cooking spray and lightly sprinkle with 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese; set aside.

In a small saucepan, combine flour and seasonings. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook and stir 1 minute longer or until thickened. Reduce heat. Stir in blue cheese and remaining Parmesan cheese. Remove from the heat; transfer to a large bowl.

Stir a small amount of hot mixture into egg yolks; return all to the bowl, stirring constantly. Allow to cool slightly.

In another large bowl with clean beaters, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. With a spatula, stir a fourth of the egg whites into cheese mixture until no white streaks remain. Fold in remaining egg whites until combined.

Transfer to prepared dish. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until the top is puffed and center appears set. Serve immediately.

Yield: 8 servings