Pasta loving people, beware! You need healthy pasta alternatives.
Starchy, refined and processed white pasta is a thing of the past. In this day and age where healthy food choices are fast becoming the norm, it has become increasingly important to raise awareness and advocate for healthy substitutes replacing people’s old unhealthy carby ways.
There are now such things as ‘healthy carbs’ where the health content of the food you are eating has more nutritional value compared to plain old carbohydrates.
Since almost everyone loves pasta, here are some new guilt-free ways to enjoy this dish:
1. Brown Rice Pasta
Brown rice pasta has very similar nutrient content as whole-wheat pasta but it is made from ground brown rice instead of wheat. This makes it the perfect pasta alternative for someone who is allergic to gluten or wheat.
With a firm texture and a taste that is completely indistinguishable from white pasta noodles, this alternative is sure to be a crowd pleaser for those picky eaters in your life.
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2. Quinoa pasta
Who knew there could be protein in pasta? All the way from South America, this grain is a magnificent source of protein that can be added to your diet without compromising taste.
The corn-quinoa blend helps the pasta stay firm holding a shape comparable to regular white pasta. This can be added to your diet for immediate satisfaction!
3. Zucchini Noodles
Otherwise known as Zoodles, Zucchini noodles are the perfect way to trade out those starchy carbs for some much needed veggies. And the good news is that it’s only 20 calories per cup compared with 175 calories per cup for traditional spaghetti.
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Zoodles are known to have the same texture as traditional noodles with the bold taste of Zucchini. Although you will need a spiral slicer to make the Zoodles, I guarantee this will become an instant staple on pasta night.
4. Black Bean Pasta
I will admit that I was initially skeptical of how this substitute would taste but man oh man, from the first bite to the last, it had me salivating for more. The taste is similar to regular wheat pasta making it a perfect complement with the sauce of your choosing.
In addition, the nutritional content is almost unbelievable. The brand I purchased (which I am sure is similar to most if not all black bean pasta) was organic and gluten-free containing 25g of protein and 12g of fiber per 56g serving. The fiber content assists in digestion and keeps you fuller for longer.
As each of these pasta alternatives brings something different to the table, it is recommended that you try each and find out which one works best for you.
Now that you are fully armed with knowledge of these wonderful healthy pasta alternatives, say your goodbye to unhealthy processed carbs and hello to the new and improved healthy carbs of today!