π₯π π Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Pasta (WW Recipe) ππ π₯
Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Pasta is a delicious and creamy Italian-American dish with a Weight Watchers twist. This recipe offers a healthier, lighter version of the classic Alfredo pasta by incorporating WW-friendly ingredients. It’s a flavorful combination of crispy bacon, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy Alfredo sauce, all served over your choice of pasta.
π History:
Alfredo pasta, also known as Fettuccine Alfredo, is an Italian pasta dish traditionally made with fettuccine noodles, butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. It was popularized in the United States by Alfredo Di Lelio, an Italian restaurateur. The WW version of this dish is a modern adaptation, created to align with the Weight Watchers program’s focus on healthy eating and portion control.
π§ Components:
- 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine or pasta of your choice
- 4 slices of center-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fat-free chicken broth
- 1 cup fat-free half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons light cream cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
π©βπ³ Steps to Prepare:
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan, crumble it, and set it aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. SautΓ© for a couple of minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.
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Stir in the half-and-half, light cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and the cheese is fully melted.
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Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt, as both bacon and Parmesan are already salty.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
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Serve the pasta in bowls, garnish with crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil.
β²οΈ Preparation Time:
The total preparation time for this dish typically takes about 30-40 minutes, including cooking the pasta, preparing the sauce, and serving the dish.
This Weight Watchers-friendly Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Pasta is a tasty and satisfying meal that won’t make you feel like you’re sacrificing flavor. Enjoy the creamy indulgence while staying mindful of your WW points! π½οΈππ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for the Bacon and Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo Pasta (WW Recipe):
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 380-420
- Total Fat: 12-14 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
- Cholesterol: 30-40 milligrams
- Sodium: 400-500 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 45-50 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 5-7 grams
- Sugars: 5-7 grams
- Protein: 20-25 grams
Health Information:
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Moderation: While this WW-friendly version of Alfredo pasta is designed to be healthier and lower in calories, it’s still important to consume it in moderation. Portion control is key to managing your calorie intake.
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Whole Wheat Pasta: Opting for whole wheat pasta provides more fiber and nutrients compared to regular white pasta. This can help with digestion and keep you feeling fuller longer.
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Bacon: Center-cut bacon is a leaner choice compared to regular bacon. It adds flavor to the dish but should still be consumed in moderation due to its fat and sodium content.
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Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, such as vitamin C and lycopene. They can add a burst of flavor to your meal.
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Low-Fat Dairy: This recipe uses fat-free half-and-half, light cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. These choices reduce the overall fat content while still providing the creamy texture of Alfredo sauce.
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Balance: The use of light cream cheese and fat-free half-and-half helps reduce the calorie and fat content, making the dish a more balanced option for those looking to manage their weight.
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Sodium: Be cautious with your sodium intake, especially if you’re on a low-sodium diet. Bacon and Parmesan cheese are naturally high in sodium, so consider reducing the added salt in the recipe.
Remember that the specific nutrition facts may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use. Always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian if you have specific dietary concerns or health goals.