Heart-Healthy Creamy Cheese and Vegetable Pasta

Elevate your pasta night with this Heart-Healthy Creamy Cheese and Vegetable Pasta, a wholesome twist on comfort food that doesn't skimp on flavor. Made with nutrient-rich whole-grain pasta and a medley of colorful vegetables like red bell peppers, zucchini, and fresh spinach, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. The velvety sauce combines low-fat cream cheese, grated Parmesan, and a splash of low-sodium vegetable broth, creating a creamy texture without the guilt. Infused with garlic, fresh basil, and a hint of lemon juice, every bite bursts with vibrant, fresh flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes and is sure to satisfy both your taste buds and your health-conscious goals.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole-grain pasta
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
• 4 ounces low-fat cream cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the whole-grain pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the julienned red bell pepper and sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 4

Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.

Step 5

Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the low-fat cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Step 6

Lower the heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined and creamy.

Step 7

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 8

Season with black pepper, salt, and lemon juice for added flavor.

Step 9

Top with fresh basil before serving and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1119.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1247.2

Total Fat 74.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 32.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 120.5mg	0%
Sodium 2650.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 93.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.2g	0%
Total Sugars 17.8g
Protein 58.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1212.8mg	0%
Iron 7.2mg	0%
Potassium 1466.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.6%

Protein: 18.3%

Carbs: 29.1%