Holiday Market High Protein Pasta (Printable)
Hearty pasta with protein-rich ingredients and colorful vegetables, ideal for festive occasions or wholesome dining.
# List of ingredients:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz high-protein pasta (chickpea or lentil)
→ Protein
02 - 14 oz canned white beans, drained and rinsed
03 - 7 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
04 - 2 tbsp olive oil
→ Vegetables
05 - 1 small red onion, diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
08 - 1 zucchini, diced
09 - 3.5 oz baby spinach
10 - 5 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
→ Sauce & Seasoning
11 - 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
12 - 2 tbsp tomato paste
13 - 1 tsp dried oregano
14 - 1 tsp dried basil
15 - ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
16 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
17 - Fresh basil leaves
18 - 1.5 oz grated Parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)
# Steps:
01 - Prepare high-protein pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving ½ cup (120 ml) pasta water, and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove tofu and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add diced red onion and cook for 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook an additional minute until fragrant.
04 - Stir in diced bell pepper and zucchini. Sauté for 4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
05 - Add cherry tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer mixture for 5 minutes.
06 - Return white beans and sautéed tofu to the skillet. Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted.
07 - Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Toss until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
08 - Plate hot, topped with fresh basil leaves and grated cheese or vegan alternative if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This pasta feels indulgent yet keeps you energized with its protein-packed ingredients, like a cozy hug from a friend.
- The mix of colorful vegetables and herbs creates vibrant flavors that turn every bite into a little celebration.
02 -
- Pressing the tofu well before cooking ensures it crisps up and doesn’t become mushy—a game changer.
- Reserving pasta water to add at the end makes the sauce silky and helps bind all the flavors gracefully.
03 -
- Using high-protein pasta sometimes changes cooking times, so keep a close eye and test often to avoid overcooking.
- Adding veggies in stages keeps their textures distinct, making the final dish more interesting with every bite.