Ep 3. Italian Done Light

In season 2 of Not My Mama's Meals, chef Bobby Deen continues to demonstrate that healthy eating doesn't have to be bland or boring. In episode 3, Italian Done Light, he takes on the challenge of creating lighter and healthier versions of classic Italian dishes.

The episode begins with Bobby discussing his love for Italian food but acknowledging that it can often be heavy and loaded with calories. To counteract this, he's come up with some creative swaps and alternatives to make these dishes more nutritious.

First up, he tackles one of the most iconic Italian dishes - spaghetti and meatballs. Bobby's version uses turkey meatballs and swaps traditional spaghetti for zucchini noodles. He also adds in plenty of veggies like roasted tomatoes and mushrooms to up the nutrition factor. The end result is a delicious and satisfying meal that's far lower in calories and fat than the original.

Next, Bobby takes on another Italian classic - chicken parmesan. He starts by baking his chicken instead of frying it to save on calories. He also uses a mix of whole wheat breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese to give the dish a healthy boost. Instead of serving it with pasta, he opts for a side of roasted broccoli for added fiber and vitamins.

For the final dish, Bobby whips up a lighter version of lasagna. He uses ground turkey instead of beef and skips the noodles altogether, instead layering thin slices of eggplant and zucchini. To keep the traditional lasagna flavor, he uses plenty of tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and fresh herbs. The end result is a hearty and flavorful meal that's much lower in calories and carbs than the original.

Throughout the episode, Bobby also shares some helpful tips and tricks for making healthy eating easier. He talks about the importance of planning ahead and cooking in batches to save time and avoid temptation. He also emphasizes the importance of portion control and encourages viewers to be mindful of their eating habits.

Overall, Italian Done Light is a great episode for anyone looking to enjoy their favorite Italian dishes without sacrificing their health goals. Bobby's creative and delicious recipes prove that eating healthy can be both enjoyable and satisfying.