More Peas, Please!

I admit it.  In the past, I have been known to cook up a box of Hamburger Helper!  I know, I know.  Shocking right?  I think at some time in our cooking careers, we have all used one of these “easy, quick” meals.

Well, no more!  I have found a quick and easy and healthy pasta meal, everyone can enjoy! 

This meal is made in one dish, so clean up is a breeze.  It is also made with ingredients most of us have in the house!

Not only can this meal be made for $2.00 or less per serving, it is low calorie, low fat and low sodium.*

Easy Pasta Carbonara
Serves 8
Approx. $2.00 per serving

Ingredients:

1/2 of a 12 oz pkg. uncooked turkey bacon
1 medium onion
4 garlic cloves
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 pkg. (14.5 oz) uncooked multi grain bow-tie pasta (5 cups)
1 carton (32 oz) unsalted chicken stock
1 can (12 oz) fat-free evaporated milk
1 oz fresh Parmesan cheese (grated)
4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed

Directions:

Stack bacon and cut in half length wise.  Cut crosswise.

Cook bacon over medium heat for 4 -5 minutes or until browned.  Meanwhile, finely chop onion.

Add onion and garlic to bacon.  Add pepper flakes if using.  Cook for another 3 – 4 minutes or until onion is tender.

Add pasta, stock and evaporate milk.  Cover and bring to a simmer. (Do not boil)  Simmer 12 – 14 minutes or until pasta is still a little firm, stirring occasionally

Grate Parmesan cheese and set aside. 

Remove skillet from heat.  Stir in cream cheese, peas and Parmesan.

Let stand, covered, 5 minutes or until sauce is thick and creamy.

*U.S. Nutrients per serving:
Calories 360
Total Fat 8 g.
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 30 mg
Sodium 490 mg
Carbohydrate 47 g
Fiber 5 g
Protein 22 g