* Item: Michelina's Lean 'N Tasty

* What you get: 1 serving

* Cost: About $1.50

* Preparation time: 5 to 6 minutes in the microwave, 25 to 30 minutes, conventional oven

* Review: These cook-in-the-cardboard-tray entrees are low fat (only 2 1/2 grams for the two dishes I tried), but they still taste good. Though the sodium content comes in at 30 percent or more, cholesterol and calories (just 200 to 300 a serving) are so low it's a trade-off I'm willing to make. The Penne Arrabiata offers a zesty, chunky sauce in record time. The Honey Barbecue Sauce with Chicken and Rice tastes more like Chinese sweet and sour chicken, with a tasty sauce and firm rice. Other flavors include Penne Pasta with Mushrooms, Teriyaki Chicken with Rice, and Gravy with Egg Noodles and Swedish Meatballs.

Pub Date: 7/22/98