Pasta has received some bad press lately, as carbohydrates have been targeted by several weight loss diets. Carbohydrates are actually an essential nutrient and the most ready source of energy for the body. Studies have shown, though, that it is not the pasta, it is other ingredients included in many of the heavier pasta dishes that are the culprits in weight gain. These are loaded with calories and fats and contribute to weight gain and even some chronic conditions like cardiovascular problems. Just think of the deep cheese coverings, the meat-saturated sauces or the rich cream sauces that accompany so many pasta dinners. These are simply packed with unhealthy fats and calories!
Compare that to a delightful meal of wholegrain pasta with portobello mushrooms and fresh asparagus drizzled with garlic olive oil, what a difference! Whether you are concerned with weight loss or just wanting to cut back on your consumption of meat, vegetarian pasta dishes are a delightful way to enjoy naturally energy-giving pasta accompanied by a host of healthy vegetables.
Increasing numbers of health conscious people are moving towards a vegetarian diet. You may not have achieved going totally vegetarian, but trying a few meatless meals each week is a good start on lowering the amount of animal products in your diet. Most vegetarian pasta dishes are quick and easy to prepare, making them the perfect fit for today’s busy lifestyles. All you need are wholesome wholegrain pasta, healthy olive oil, an abundance of fresh or dried herbs and your choice of delicious fresh vegetables to make a hearty yet healthy evening meal.
One of the simplest vegetarian pasta dishes is pasta with vine-ripened tomatoes, basil and beans. Simply cook the pasta, dice several luscious ripe tomatoes, chop some fresh basil and open a can of black or white beans. Then, toss the ingredients together with olive oil. This is perfect served cold as a side dish or at room temperature for a main dish. For those who enjoy garlic and onions, dice fresh garlic or chop a red onion, adding these to the pasta. This delicious vegetarian pasta dish is quick, tasty and good for you too!
Linguine with pesto tomato and grilled eggplant is an elegant dish with hearty eggplant that provides a flavor almost reminiscent of grilled meat. For an additional depth of flavor, try marinating the eggplant in olive oil, garlic and your choice of herbs before grilling. Once the ingredients are ready, simply toss them together and serve this one hot. You will be surprised at how you don’t miss meat at all with this flavorful pasta dish!
Although vegetarian pasta dishes are ideal on hot summer days when the garden is full of fresh tomatoes and herbs, hearty vegetable stew with fusilli pasta is a wonderful meal for a chilly fall or winter evening. Prepare your choice of vegetables in a tomato-based sauce, creating a soothing vegetable stew. Season with warming garlic and onion, thyme, parsley, rosemary and a hint of hot pepper. Add the fusilli just before serving this hot and savory dinner.
Use your imagination, experimenting with different shapes of pasta, vegetables you haven’t tried before, and a variety of fresh or dried herbs. Vegetarian pasta dishes provide the best of healthy, delectable eating!
