Calories In Turkey Spaghetti With Whole Wheat Pasta
Do you love pasta but worry about the calories? Well, you don't have to give up your love for spaghetti just yet. With the right ingredients and cooking methods, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious plate of turkey spaghetti with whole wheat pasta that won't derail your diet. In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of whole wheat pasta, the nutrition of turkey, and how to make a low-calorie spaghetti sauce. So, let's get started!
Benefits of Whole Wheat Pasta
Whole wheat pasta is an excellent alternative to traditional pasta made from refined flour. Unlike regular pasta, whole wheat pasta is made from whole grains, which means it contains more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The fiber in whole wheat pasta helps to slow down digestion, which means you feel fuller for longer periods, and it prevents spikes in blood sugar levels. According to the American Heart Association, consuming whole grains can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
Nutrition of Turkey
Turkey is a lean protein source that is low in fat and calories. A three-ounce serving of turkey breast contains about 120 calories, 26 grams of protein, and less than one gram of fat. Turkey is also a great source of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, selenium, and zinc. According to the USDA, eating turkey as part of a healthy diet can lower your risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Low-Calorie Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
One of the easiest ways to reduce the calories in spaghetti is to make a low-calorie sauce. Here's a recipe for a healthy and delicious spaghetti sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. Serve over cooked whole wheat spaghetti.
Calories in Turkey Spaghetti with Whole Wheat Pasta
Now that we've discussed the benefits of whole wheat pasta, the nutrition of turkey, and a low-calorie spaghetti sauce recipe let's talk about the total calories in turkey spaghetti with whole wheat pasta. A serving of turkey spaghetti with whole wheat pasta (1 cup of cooked pasta and 3 ounces of turkey) with the low-calorie sauce we just made contains about 350-400 calories. This is a great option for those who are looking for a healthy and satisfying meal option that won't break the calorie bank.
Conclusion
Spaghetti is a classic dish that doesn't have to be off-limits if you're trying to watch your calorie intake. By using whole wheat pasta, lean turkey, and a low-calorie sauce, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that won't derail your diet. So, the next time you're craving spaghetti, give this healthy and easy recipe a try!