Thursday, March 27, 2008

Healthy Carbonara



A new recipe from Parents Magazine. Using fat free half-and-half cuts the fat and calories down.

Prep/Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

1 9-ounce package fettuccine
1 cup frozen green peas
3 slices center-cut bacon
1 small onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 cup fat free half-and-half
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan

Cook pasta according to package directions, but don't salt the water. Three minutes before the pasta is supposed to be done, ass the peas to the pot. Drain and reserve 3/4 cup cooking liquid.

Cook bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Reserve 2 teaspoons of dripping and discard the rest. Add onion to the pan and cook until soft. Add the thyme and garlic and cook another minute. Stir in pasta and peas and reserved cooking liquid and half-and-half. Cook 2 minutes.

Crumble bacon on top and toss in cheese.

Tips and Tricks
I cooked the bacon in the microwave and then used a teaspoon of olive oil to cook the onions. I used Italian seasoning in place of thyme. Use spinach fettuccine to up your veggie intake.
Make It Healthier
Cook onions in cooking spray instead of bacon drippings. Serve with whole wheat pasta.
How Kids Can Help
Measure ingredients. Push buttons on microwave.

Nutrition Facts
one serving equals 326 calories, 16 g protein, 10 g fat, 44 g carbs, 187 mg calcium, 3 g fiber

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