In Praise Of The TV Dinner

Once upon a time, they were the very latest thing for the modern American homemaker. For lots of Moms in the '50s, it was convenient to pop a frozen dinner in the oven. Well, half a century changes things, and in this case, change is mostly for the better.

The folks at Women's Health Magazine have found some of the very best in heat-and-eat dinners, so Amy Goodman, a contributing editor to the magazine, visited The Saturday Early Show to explain.

In their November issue, Women's Health editors reviewed the newest brands in the frozen food aisle and had them analyzed by a nutritionist to find the tastiest and healthiest options out there. After taste-testing 40 to 50 dishes, they chose the best of the new frozen food brands to satisfy your body, your mind, and your taste buds. The price range for the meals is $3 to $6.

They found the best new "gourmet" meal to be Seeds of Change ($4.30).

The most filling one: Lean Cuisine Dinnertime Selects ($3.50). The magazine's favorite dish is Balsamic Glazed Chicken.

Most frozen meals taste better when baked in a conventional oven for 20 to 40 minutes, but if you're really pressed for time, a good option is Kashi All Natural Entrees ($4), designed to reach the perfect moisture level when nuked. Like the brand's cereal, these dishes are based on high-fiber seven-grain pilaf . The magazine's favorite: Lime Cilantro Shrimp.

If you are wary of high sodium levels, Women's Health recommends Amy's Kitchen Light in Sodium ($2.70 to $3). The favorite: Black Bean Enchilada

If you're craving something greasy but don't want the guilt, the magazine taps Healthy Choice Pizza (about $2). The favorite: Basic Cheese.

For a traditional "meat and potatoes" meal, the magazine recommends Swanson or Lean Cuisine.

Other brands recommended by Women's Health magazine include Cedarlane Zone Pizzas and Stouffer's.