Nutritional Analysis: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Spaghetti with meat sauce is a classic and comforting dish that many people love to enjoy. However, it’s important to be aware of the nutritional content of this meal, as it can be high in calories, fat, and sodium. By understanding the nutritional analysis of this dish, you can make informed decisions about your diet and make adjustments to suit your health goals.

A typical serving of spaghetti with meat sauce (1 cup of cooked pasta and 1/2 cup of sauce) can contain around 309 calories, 9g of fat, 29g of carbohydrates, 3g of fiber, and 23g of protein. The sauce can also be high in sodium, so it’s important to be mindful of your salt intake when enjoying this dish.

To make a healthier version of spaghetti with meat sauce, you can use lean ground beef or turkey, whole wheat pasta, and add plenty of vegetables to the sauce. This will increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal, while reducing the overall calorie and fat content.

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for spaghetti with meat sauce:

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for a few more minutes until the onion is soft.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and then reduce the heat. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
6. Serve the spaghetti with the meat sauce on top, and sprinkle with some grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

By making small adjustments to the ingredients and portion sizes, you can enjoy a healthier and more nutritious version of spaghetti with meat sauce. Remember to be mindful of your portion sizes and pair this dish with a side of vegetables to create a balanced and satisfying meal.