Spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that most people love. However, traditional spaghetti recipes can be quite high in calories, making it challenging for those who are watching their weight or trying to eat healthier.

But fear not! We have come up with a delicious low-calorie spaghetti recipe that will satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your diet.

Ingredients

8 ounces of whole wheat spaghetti
1 tablespoon of olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 zucchini, thinly sliced
1 cup of mushrooms, sliced
1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
1 can (6 ounces) of tomato paste
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

3. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.

4. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Add the cooked whole wheat spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta with the sauce.

7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pasta is well heated.

8. Serve the low-calorie spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

9. Enjoy your guilt-free and satisfying low-calorie spaghetti!.

Health Benefits of Low-Calorie Spaghetti

By using whole wheat spaghetti instead of traditional white pasta, this recipe offers additional nutritional benefits. Whole wheat pasta is higher in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling fuller for longer.

It also has a lower glycemic index, which means it won’t cause a spike in your blood sugar levels like white pasta does.

The abundance of vegetables in this recipe provides essential vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while zucchini is a great source of potassium and vitamin A.

Mushrooms offer a boost of B vitamins and selenium, which supports the immune system.

Moreover, this low-calorie spaghetti recipe uses minimal oil and relies on the natural flavors of the vegetables and herbs for taste.

By reducing the amount of added fats and calories, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without feeling guilty or compromising your weight loss or wellness goals.

Variations and Tips

This low-calorie spaghetti recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are some variations and tips to enhance your experience:.

For an extra protein boost, add grilled chicken breast or cooked shrimp to the spaghetti.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as eggplant, spinach, or kale.
Top your low-calorie spaghetti with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Try using a spiralizer to make zucchini noodles (zoodles) as a low-carb alternative to spaghetti.

Remember, portion control is essential even when making low-calorie dishes. While this recipe is healthier than its traditional counterpart, it’s still important to enjoy it in moderation and practice mindful eating.