High Protein Herb-Infused Pasta

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this vibrant and nutrient-packed High Protein Herb-Infused Pasta! Made with wholesome chickpea or red lentil pasta, this dish is a delicious fusion of plant-based protein and fresh, zesty flavors. Sautéed garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tender spinach form the perfect base, while creamy cannellini beans provide a hearty, satisfying bite. Infused with fragrant basil, parsley, and a touch of lemon zest, this pasta is light, refreshing, and endlessly satisfying. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an ideal choice for quick, healthy meals that don't skimp on flavor. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an optional finishing touch, and enjoy a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious! Perfect for pasta lovers, vegetarians, or anyone looking to add a protein-packed twist to their dinner rotation.

Nutriscore Rating: 88/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces High-protein pasta (e.g., chickpea or red lentil pasta)
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 units Garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cups Fresh spinach leaves
• 1 15-ounce can Cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
• 0.5 cup Fresh basil, chopped
• 0.25 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.

Step 4

Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they are wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 5

Add the cannellini beans to the skillet, along with the lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix well to combine.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

Mix in the fresh basil and parsley, then season with salt and black pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8

Serve the pasta warm, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1363.2 grams (1363.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2177

Total Fat 68.00g	87%
Saturated Fat 18.90g	95%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 48mg	16%
Sodium 3403mg	148%
Total Carbohydrate 295.50g	107%
Dietary Fiber 56.30g	201%
Total Sugars 16.50g
Protein 139.60g	279%

Vitamin D 24IU	119%
Calcium 1648mg	127%
Iron 32mg	177%
Potassium 5468mg	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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.0%

Protein: 23.7%

Carbs: 50.2%