But we all know that giving up something we enjoy is not always the answer—finding a healthy balance is! Luckily, there are tons of great ways to make your favorite food less decadent and still enjoyable with these 55 healthy pasta recipes.
What’s The Healthiest Pasta To Have?
Some of the healthiest pastas include: whole-wheat pasta, chickpea pasta, lentil-based pasta, veggie noodles (zoodles!) and soba noodles. If you need a gluten-free version, be sure to look for 100% buckwheat soba noodles.
Is Pasta Healthier Than Rice?
Both pasta and rice are considered carbs, but they differ in terms of nutritional benefits to your meal. While rice offers lower calories and carbs, you can oftentimes find more protein and fiber in certain alternative pasta choices.
How Can I Make My Pasta Healthier?
Go lean: When adding meat to your pasta, be sure to go lean! Choose from boneless, skinless chicken breasts or fish for a brain-healthy option.Pack in the veggies: Add fewer noodles and more fresh or roasted veggies to your pasta for a lighter meal. Zucchini, eggplant, onions, sweet peppers, mushrooms, snow peas, tomatoes, squash, cucumber and broccoli are all great options.Skip rich, cream-based sauces: Opt for spices and olive oil, superfood-based pestos or homemade dairy-free sauces (think cashew cream sauce instead of alfredo sauce, etc.)
Best Healthy Pasta Recipes
With these 55 easy (and good-for-you!) pasta recipes, you’ll see eating the rainbow in your pasta has its benefits. You’ll also find plenty of healthy pasta inspiration with dishes like Cajun Shrimp Zucchini Pasta and Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai. Then there are gluten-free swaps for favorites like Gluten-Free Mac N Cheese, Gluten-Free Ravioli and Gluten-Free Homemade Pasta. There are healthy chicken and shrimp pasta dishes, lightened-up pasta salad recipes and lots of vegetarian pasta as well! Upping your veggie intake and decreasing the number of creamy sauces and extra cheese added to pasta allows you to enjoy this comfort food on the regular—without the guilt.
