Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this High Protein Herb-Infused Pasta – a nutritious, flavor-packed dish designed to satisfy your cravings while keeping you fueled. Crafted with protein-rich chickpea or red lentil pasta, this recipe features a vibrant medley of garlic, cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and creamy cannellini beans, all infused with the zesty brightness of lemon juice and zest. A generous sprinkle of fresh basil and parsley brings an aromatic touch, while optional Parmesan adds savory depth. Perfect for busy individuals seeking healthy pasta recipes, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes and serves four, making it a convenient, plant-forward option for any meal. Ideal for those pursuing high-protein vegetarian meals, this pasta is your ticket to bold, wholesome flavors in every bite!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the high-protein pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they are wilted, about 2 minutes.
Add the cannellini beans to the skillet, along with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix well to combine.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat. If needed, pour in some of the reserved pasta water to help bind the ingredients and create a light sauce.
Mix in the fresh basil and parsley, then season with salt and black pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve the pasta warm, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Calories |
2177 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 68.0 g | 87% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.9 g | 94% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 3403 mg | 148% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 295.5 g | 107% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 56.3 g | 201% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.5 g | ||
| Protein | 139.6 g | 279% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 1648 mg | 127% | |
| Iron | 31.8 mg | 177% | |
| Potassium | 5468 mg | 116% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.