Lightened Spaghetti A La Carbonara
A lightened, creamy spaghetti dish with turkey bacon, peas, and red pepper, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a quick, healthy dinner option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
- Spray a nonstick pan with Pam and cook turkey bacon until crisp.
- Remove bacon and set aside.
- In the same pan, combine beaten egg, frozen peas, evaporated skim milk, chopped red pepper, and crushed red pepper.
- Cook for 6 minutes over medium-high heat, ensuring it does not boil.
- Stir in bacon and half of the cheese, then heat through.
- Pour the sauce over hot cooked spaghetti.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, use turkey bacon as suggested, but feel free to substitute with lean ham if preferred. Ensure the egg mixture doesn't boil to maintain a smooth sauce. If you want added flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded. If you have leftovers, adding a splash of broth can help rehydrate the sauce when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. To elevate your spaghetti a la carbonara, consider serving it alongside Antipasto Squares for a delightful appetizer or a light dessert. A glass of white wine can complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the egg.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lightened Spaghetti A La Carbonara contains roughly 304 calories, with 16g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value) and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. At about 304 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 a vegetarian version by omitting the turkey bacon and using sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for added flavor. You can also increase the quantity of vegetables like peas and red peppers to enhance the dish.
Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated skim milk?
While you can use regular milk, evaporated skim milk provides a creamier texture without the extra calories. If substituting, consider reducing the quantity slightly and adding a touch of flour to thicken the sauce.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Parmesan cheese is traditional for carbonara, but you can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using a reduced-fat Italian cheese blend to keep the dish light.
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).