Pasta is a go-to quick and easy dinner. Whole wheat pasta, which is a September Foods of the Month, gives your meal much more healthy fiber. Are you in a rut with your pasta dishes and need some inspiration? Check out these healthy and tasty options, all involving whole wheat pasta!
Whole Wheat Mac and Cheese – Cook whole wheat pasta, then make a healthier homemade cheese sauce by combining flour, skim milk, reduced-fat butter and a little salt over a stovetop skillet, then add in shredded low-fat cheese. Combine the cheese sauce with the pasta, add peas, mushrooms and top with onions. There is no need to bake this dish, so you can serve immediately.
Veggie Packed Whole Wheat Pasta – While preparing your favorite whole wheat spaghetti according to instructions, add your favorite veggies like tomatoes, broccoli and garlic to a baking dish. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and top with a little salt. Roast all the veggies at 425 degrees for about 10 minutes, until they begin to brown. Combine spaghetti with the veggies, top with basil and serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Whole Wheat Pasta with Homemade Pesto – Use whole wheat penne in this dish, which involves a quick and simple homemade pesto with less fat that store bought ones. The key to making your own pesto is to toast the pine nuts beforehand. Use a food processor to combine 1 ½ cups of basil leaves, 3 tbsp. olive oil, ½ cup pine nuts, ½ cup parmesan cheese ½ garlic clove, and a splash of water. The end result should be a delicious pesto sauce that is light green in color and is the desired amount for an entire box of pasta (about 7 servings). Add your favorite veggies and lean meats to this healthy dish.
Fiber Filled Whole Wheat Ziti – Substitute whole wheat penne in your favorite ziti dish, and add a layer of spinach for a nutrient packed healthy and hearty meal!
