Mission Impastable

Everyone loves a comforting pasta dish. It is easy to make and easy to customize with so many different pasta sauces and recipes out there. Delicious mouth-watering lasagna, gooey mac and cheese, and hearty spaghetti bolognese are just some of the many beautiful pasta creations we are blessed to have in this world. As much as we want to eat those every night of the week, our metabolism sometimes begs for something just as delicious but not so food-coma inducing. Many think it's impossible to eat a healthy pasta, but we are here to tell you it’s pasta-ble. Below, we have explored some of the newest trends in healthy pasta alternatives.

WHOLE WHEAT PASTA

Probably the most common healthy pasta alternative, whole wheat pasta contains complex carbohydrates that significantly lower blood cholesterol levels and may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Although this pasta has less protein than the other varieties mentioned, you can always add italian sausage or chicken, along with some butternut squash and sage for a filling and flavorful meal.

RED LENTIL PASTA

Lentils have been used as a substantial source of nutrition for thousands of years. Red lentils lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and aid in weight loss. Red lentil pasta has just as much protein as chickpea pasta, but has slightly less fiber. We recommend adding your favorite pesto sauce and bright cherry tomatoes to this pasta.

BLACK BEAN PASTA

Black beans are a staple food for many people and black bean pasta, according to Whitney E., a Registered Dietician, is an incredibly healthy and gluten-free alternative to regular pasta. It is high in fiber and protein, while remaining low in calories! We recommend pairing it with a classic marinara sauce, and enhancing it with spinach, garlic, basil, and thyme to create a delicious, yet simple, black bean pasta dish.

BROWN RICE PASTA

Brown rice is great for lowering cholesterol, and contains just as many calories as the other pastas mentioned so far, but with less protein and fiber. Although this is supposed to be an article about healthy pastas, I believe the best way to enjoy this pasta is with a creamy carbonara sauce with loads of cheese. But don’t worry, if you prefer something healthier, it also pairs well with grilled zucchini, lemon zest, olive oil, and garlic.

CHICKPEA PASTA

Chickpeas, widely consumed in India, Africa, and South America, are another miracle food just waiting to be eaten by the rest of the world! Chickpeas control blood sugar levels and provide you with a feeling of fullness, which can help manage your appetite. Like black bean pasta, it is high in fiber and protein with a similar amount of calories. We recommend adding roasted red peppers and broccoli for a tasty and healthy chickpea pasta dinner.

On the hunt for a healthy alternative to pasta? We’ve done the research so you don’t have to

BY JULIAN SKARSTON

PHOTO BY LAURA OLIVERIO