High-Protein Veggie Pasta

Name: High-Protein Veggie Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g chickpea pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup spinach; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love preparing this High-Protein Veggie Pasta for its vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients. It's a guilt-free meal that's not only delicious but packed with nutrients. Each bite is a burst of flavor, thanks to the fresh vegetables and protein-rich pasta. Whether I'm looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, this recipe never disappoints. The best part is how adaptable it is—feel free to swap in your favorite veggies!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:54:27.552Z

When I first tried making High-Protein Veggie Pasta, I was amazed at how easy it was to incorporate healthy ingredients into a single dish. I often experiment with different kinds of pasta, but the chickpea pasta I've settled on adds a wonderful texture and delivers that protein boost I crave. I had plenty of fresh vegetables on hand, so I sautéed them in olive oil with garlic, which brought out their natural flavors beautifully.

To elevate the dish, I like to sprinkle a generous amount of nutritional yeast on top right before serving. It not only adds a cheesy flavor but also enhances the protein content. One tip I’ve learned is to cook the pasta just until al dente; this ensures it retains a bite and pairs perfectly with the sautéed veggies. Give it a try—you might just fall in love with this dish as I did!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious blend of protein-packed pasta and vibrant veggies
Simple to customize with your favorite vegetables
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste amazing
Elevated flavors with a hint of garlic and nutritional yeast

Ingredient Highlights

Using chickpea pasta in this High-Protein Veggie Pasta not only elevates the protein content but also adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the fresh vegetables beautifully. Chickpea pasta is gluten-free and brings a wonderful texture to the dish, which holds up well without becoming mushy. Make sure to cook it until al dente, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes depending on the brand, to ensure the perfect bite.

The choice of vegetables plays a crucial role in both flavor and nutrition. I love the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the crunch of bell peppers, but feel free to experiment! Broccoli florets, asparagus, or even kale can be good alternatives. Keep in mind that denser vegetables like carrots may require slightly longer cooking times; aiming for a tender but still slightly crisp texture will maintain the balance of flavors in this dish.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the garlic before adding other vegetables is a key step that boosts the overall flavor of the dish. Cook the garlic in medium heat olive oil until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds. Overcooking can lead to bitterness, which will detract from the dish's freshness. Use a large skillet to give the vegetables ample space to cook evenly and caramelize, ensuring the perfect blend of flavors.

Combining the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables involves more than just mixing. If you find the pasta appears dry, the reserved pasta water is your best friend; adding a splash helps create a cohesive sauce that clings beautifully to the ingredients. This technique brings everything together while enhancing the richness of the dish, making it more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

200g chickpea pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)

Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chickpea pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the spinach wilts.

Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with nutritional yeast if using. Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious meal!

Pair this pasta with a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try toasting the nutritional yeast before adding it to the dish. It enhances its cheesy flavor significantly!

Storage and Meal Prep

This High-Protein Veggie Pasta is excellent for meal prep! After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to the skillet to help revive the pasta and ensure it doesn’t become dry or tough. I find reheating on low heat is the key to keeping the veggies vibrant and not mushy.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time for entertaining, consider preparing the pasta and veggies separately. This way, you can quickly combine them and heat everything for about 5 minutes before serving, keeping each ingredient at its best texture.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize the protein content even further by adding cooked lentils or grilled chicken if you want to make this dish heartier. Incorporating a protein boost is a perfect way to make it more filling for a post-workout meal. For a dairy twist, you could also sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top just before serving, adding a creamy element that enhances the dish's richness.

In terms of flavor, a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice can add brightness to the finished pasta. Consider experimenting with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, which can elevate the flavor profile further. Just toss them in at the end for a fresh, aromatic touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular pasta instead of chickpea pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, but chickpea pasta offers a good protein boost and a unique flavor.

→ What vegetables can I use in this recipe?

You can use any vegetables you like! Broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers work well. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta, this recipe will be gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of water to prevent drying out.