Heart-Healthy Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe
Savor the classic Italian flavors of Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe with a heart-healthy twist! This nutritious recipe swaps traditional ingredients for whole-grain spaghetti, reduced-fat Parmesan, and a flavorful low-sodium vegetable broth, creating a lighter yet equally indulgent dish. Toasted black pepper infuses the olive oil with a warm, aromatic kick, while a hint of lemon zest adds a zippy freshness to each bite. Ready in just 25 minutes, this wholesome pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and enjoy a guilt-free take on this beloved classic. Perfect for those seeking a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal!
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Ingredients
- 12 oz Whole-grain spaghetti
- 2 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup Low-sodium vegetable broth
- 3 oz Grated reduced-fat Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the whole-grain spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the freshly cracked black pepper and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Step 3
Pour the low-sodium vegetable broth into the skillet with the toasted pepper. Stir and let it simmer for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4
Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet along with the reserved cooking water, 1/4 cup at a time, to achieve a lightly saucy consistency.
Step 5
Stir in the grated reduced-fat Parmesan cheese, tossing the pasta continuously until the cheese melts and coats the spaghetti evenly. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from clumping.
Step 6
Add the lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional black pepper if needed.
Step 7
Transfer the spaghetti to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your heart-healthy Cacio e Pepe!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (699.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1031.9 |
| Total Fat 55.9g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 21.5g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 85.0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1596.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 97.0g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 17.1g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 4.2g | |
| Protein 52.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1110.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 7.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 891.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories