Heart-Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Heart-Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite. Made with fiber-rich whole wheat pasta, a silky low-fat milk and vegetable broth base, and a delicate touch of freshly grated Parmesan, this dish proves that creamy doesn’t have to mean calorie-heavy. Sautéed garlic lends aromatic depth, while fresh baby spinach and basil add vibrant color and nutrients. A hint of lemon juice brightens the flavors, and a dash of crushed red pepper offers optional heat. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy, wholesome recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. It’s a satisfying, health-conscious pasta that doesn’t compromise on taste—ideal for anyone looking to enjoy delicious comfort food without the guilt.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Whole wheat pasta
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 4 units Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup Low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cup Low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
• 0.5 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups Baby spinach
• 0.25 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 0.5 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of the low-fat milk to form a slurry. Set aside.

Step 4

Add the low-sodium vegetable broth and the remaining low-fat milk to the skillet with the garlic. Stir and bring to a simmer.

Step 5

Once simmering, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7

Add the cooked pasta, baby spinach, and chopped basil to the skillet. Toss everything together until the spinach is wilted and evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 8

Season the pasta with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 9

Just before serving, stir in the lemon juice for a touch of brightness.

Step 10

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1018.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1280.1

Total Fat 67.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 29.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 114.4mg	0%
Sodium 2720.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 102.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.7g	0%
Total Sugars 14.5g
Protein 69.0g	0%

Vitamin D 148.4IU	0%
Calcium 1793.7mg	0%
Iron 8.0mg	0%
Potassium 922.6mg	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: 47.0%

Protein: 21.3%

Carbs: 31.7%