Heart-Healthy Cheesy Spaghetti
Indulge guilt-free with this Heart-Healthy Cheesy Spaghetti recipe, a wholesome twist on a family favorite that's bursting with flavor and nutrition! Made with fiber-rich whole grain spaghetti, sautéed spinach, and a creamy, tangy sauce featuring low-fat mozzarella cheese and non-fat Greek yogurt, this dish is the perfect balance of health-conscious ingredients and comfort-food appeal. A hint of vibrant lemon zest and fresh basil elevate this pasta to gourmet status, while extra virgin olive oil and garlic add irresistible savory notes. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy-to-make recipe proves that hearty meals can be both delicious and nutritious. Serve it warm for a satisfying dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole grain spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 cups spinach
- 1 cup low-fat mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 0.25 cup fresh basil
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the whole grain spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the spinach to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the low-fat mozzarella cheese, non-fat Greek yogurt, lemon zest, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
Return the spaghetti to the pot over low heat. Add the cheese mixture, sautéed spinach, and garlic to the pasta. Stir well to combine, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil.
Serve warm, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1028 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.3 g | 45% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.7 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 73 mg | 24% | |
| Sodium | 2194 mg | 95% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 104.5 g | 38% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.4 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.9 g | ||
| Protein | 80.0 g | 160% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 998 mg | 77% | |
| Iron | 7.0 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1373 mg | 29% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
