Ben Madilynn
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy twist on traditional carbonara, this Sweet Potato Carbonara with Spinach & Mushrooms is a must-try! By swapping out pasta for spiralized sweet potatoes, this dish brings a new level of flavor and nutrition to the classic Italian favorite. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this meal is low in carbs and packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein. Let’s dive into this easy, nutrient-dense recipe that’s ready in just 35 minutes!
Photo by Engin Akyurt: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photography-of-pasta-with-white-sauce-2703468/
Why Sweet Potato Carbonara?
Traditional carbonara is a comforting dish often made with pasta, eggs, and cheese. This version uses sweet potato noodles as a base, adding a naturally sweet flavor and a boost of antioxidants and fiber. Combined with hearty mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a light, creamy egg mixture, this dish is a satisfying and nutritious option for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and spiralized
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and garlic, and sauté until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Sweet Potato Noodles: Add the spiralized sweet potato to the skillet and toss with the mushrooms and garlic. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are just tender but not mushy.
- Add Spinach: Lower the heat to low, add the fresh spinach to the skillet, and stir until it wilts. This should take about a minute or two.
- Prepare the Carbonara Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if you’d like a hint of warmth and depth in flavor).
- Combine and Cook: Pour the egg mixture over the sweet potato noodles and gently stir to coat evenly. Let the eggs cook gently, stirring occasionally until set and everything is heated through. This should take around 3-5 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate your Sweet Potato Carbonara immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
Each serving of this Sweet Potato Carbonara provides:
- 256.5 calories
- 13.71g protein
- 16.5g carbohydrates
- 15.28g fat
- 2.75g fiber
- 195.5mg cholesterol
- 316.5mg sodium
- 512mg potassium
Health Highlights
- Sweet Potatoes: Rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes add a boost of nutrition and help keep you full longer.
- Spinach: High in iron, calcium, and vitamins K and A, spinach supports bone health and provides a good dose of fiber.
- Mushrooms: These nutrient-dense vegetables are low in calories but rich in B vitamins and selenium, which support immune health.
- Eggs and Parmesan: These add protein, healthy fats, and a creamy texture, making the dish more satisfying while providing essential nutrients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Sweet Potato Carbonara is creamy, savory, and has a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms and garlic. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a lightened-up pasta dish without all the carbs. Plus, with simple ingredients and quick prep, this recipe fits easily into a busy weeknight dinner routine.
Tips for Customizing
- Add Protein: If you’d like to add extra protein, grilled chicken or shrimp make great additions to this dish.
- Experiment with Veggies: Try adding in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Swap Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to keep the dish creamy without dairy.
This Sweet Potato Carbonara with Spinach & Mushrooms is a wholesome, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. With nutrient-packed ingredients and easy steps, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a satisfying, low-carb meal that’s sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy!
