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April 2, 2014

Healthy, Easy, Power Protein Pasta

Sometimes when I on a roll with recipe creating, I get in way too deep. What I mean by that: my dishes get really weird. Least we forget that sometimes more simple is more better. Ha. As I was creating my meal plan and grocery list last week, I was not in the mood for any of it. I wanted something simple -- something wholesome and filling. That is when I know it is time for me to get back to the basics.

Often times we get so caught up in the newest miracle food or diet that is up and coming and forget the "good ole foods". I am extremely guilty of that. A healthy style is all about balance. I cannot stress it enough. We all need different nutrients in moderation. I threw together a very simple, easy, filling, and nutritious recipe for my lunches this week. It is packed with protein, complex carbohydrates, vegetables, and it tastes delicious. A small portion of this goes a long way - trust me.



What you need:
- 6 oz's (half a box) Barilla Vegetable Based Pasta. Buy it here
   I like this better than brown rice pasta, whole grain, or whole wheat. It is made with freshly pureed tomatoes and carrots. You only need a VERY small portion of this pasta in this dish. The noodles are big.
1 pound of extra lean ground turkey (or chicken or beef, your choice)
- Half a bag of fresh spinach (add other vegetables as you wish)
- 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese 
- 1 container of organic garden vegetable sauce
   I normally puree tomatoes myself, but for this recipe I did not so I could have more flavor. As you see pictured above, I only had about 3/4 of a container. I would reccomend a full one. Because extra lean met has not fat and can be quite dry, more sauce helps with the taste and texture. I buy organic sauce at specialty grocery stores. The ingredients tend to be more wholesome and fresh.

What do you do:
- Boil noodles
- Cook meat until almost fully done via stove top in a pan
   This will also cook in the oven so leaving it a little undone will not make the meat as dry.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees and coat baking pan of your choice thoroughly with nonstick spray
   I used a small baking pan.
- Once noodles are al dente, pour them in said baking pan, along with tomato sauce and fresh spinach. Mix thoroughly.
- Add turkey meat and mix thoroughly again
- Top with crumbled feta
- Bake for 20 minutes


Nutrition Information:
1 serving; 7 total servings 
This will vary based upon portion size, brands and ingredients used. This is to be used as a guide only.
Calories - 200
Fat - 4g
Carbohydrates - 23g
Fiber - 6g
Protein - 21g

11 comments:

  1. Ooh, that looks really good! I have been wondering about the veggie pasta for a while, whether or not it's any good. I will definitely be picking some up next time I'm at the grocery store. I love that you post so many recipes! Quick question though... I hate hate HATE cooked spinach.. I can eat it in a salad or throw it in smoothies all day, but the second it cooks, it literally makes me gag. Any suggestions for replacement veggie options?

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    Replies
    1. Maybe you could try kale. It does not get squishy and I call it slimy if spinach is overcooked. Kinda grosses me out too.

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  2. This looks yum! I'm gonna try those noodles for sure!

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  3. That looks so good. I can't wait to give it a try.

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  4. oohhhhh I love this! I add proteins to my pasta all the time! & ground turkey is one of my favourites!! I actually have a "skinny mac & cheese" recipe which uses raw cheddar! It's perfect for those nights you want to indulge but don't want the excess calories! This pasta looks yummy girl! Power!!

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  5. I have been craving pasta lately. I like to have it every week or 2 and it is about that time! I have not tried the veggie noodles and I will have to add that to the list. Thanks for sharing

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  6. This looks delicious! I love finding healthier versions of foods that I enjoy. I wasn't sure about the veggie pasta. I have been buying whole wheat anytime I make noodles. Do you think the veggie pasta is healthier? I have seen it at my store and maybe I need to get some!

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  7. Love those Greek yogurts! I've been eating them all week too!

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  8. Love this recipe!!! Did not know about that pasta! Thanks!
    Love, SMD's momma

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