Low Calorie Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many people all over the world. However, as tasty as this dish may be, it is not always the healthiest option due to its high calorie and fat content. This is where a low calorie spaghetti and meatballs recipe comes in, providing a healthy twist on this much-loved dish without compromising on flavor.
The Ingredients You Will Need
To make this low calorie spaghetti and meatballs recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 pound spaghetti
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and salt until well-combined. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and stir until well-combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
6. Once the sauce has thickened, add the meatballs back to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
7. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti and garnish with the chopped fresh basil.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This low calorie spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a healthier alternative to the traditional version that is high in calories and fat. By using lean ground turkey instead of beef, and skipping the heavy cream and butter that is often used in the sauce, this recipe provides a lighter, yet still delicious, version of the classic dish.
The addition of fresh herbs and spices, such as parsley, basil, oregano, and black pepper, not only adds flavor but also provides health benefits. These herbs and spices are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Overall, this low calorie spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic Italian dish without feeling guilty or compromising on flavor. Give it a try and you may never go back to the traditional version again!
