Country Garden Skillet(Lo-Cal)
A light and flavorful skillet dish featuring pasta, fresh tomatoes, broccoli, ham, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal that combines tender vegetables and savory ham with cheesy goodness, making it ideal for those seeking a satisfying yet low-calorie option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté ham and broccoli until tender.
- Add prepared noodle-style pasta to the skillet.
- Toss in chopped tomatoes and stir until heated through.
- Season to taste with salt.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta instead of traditional noodle-style pasta. You can substitute the ham with turkey or a plant-based option for a lighter version. Adding garlic and onion during the sauté can enhance flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the dish, giving it a vibrant taste that complements the vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Country Garden Skillet hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad, such as Stetson Salad, for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the skillet.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Garden Skillet(Lo-Cal) contains roughly 172 calories, with 8g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), protein (17% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 842mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of butter for sautéing. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can enhance the flavor and texture while keeping it satisfying.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
While the recipe calls for noodle-style pasta, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne or fusilli can work well for capturing the flavors of the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose to ensure it's cooked al dente.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the ham and broccoli. You could also serve the finished dish with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick, catering to your spice preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).