Pasta, Protein, Veggie Dish
A quick and satisfying pasta dish featuring mixed vegetables, lean turkey ham, and a creamy Parmesan sauce, perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Steam the frozen mixed vegetables until tender.
- In a saucepan, melt the low-fat margarine over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the skim milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and salt; stir until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
- Chop the turkey ham, chicken, or imitation crab into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine cooked spaghetti, steamed vegetables, and chopped protein in a large bowl.
- Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles. You can substitute the low-fat margarine with olive oil for added flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked proteins like rotisserie chicken work well. You can also add herbs like oregano or parsley for extra flavor, similar to many Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For added crunch, consider serving it with a side of roasted asparagus. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness, making it a satisfying option for any dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta, Protein, Veggie Dish contains roughly 688 calories, with 22g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (100% of the Daily Value), iron (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1067mg per serving (46% 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 use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Whole grain or gluten-free options are also great alternatives.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the turkey ham, chicken, or imitation crab, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also use plant-based cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish, but it's best to do so without the sauce. Cooked pasta and vegetables can be frozen separately. When ready to eat, thaw, and then reheat with the sauce for optimal texture.
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).