Unusual Pasta
Unusual Pasta combines hearty tomato flavors with beans and fresh peppers for a comforting, protein-packed dish. Its rich, savory sauce pairs perfectly with pasta shells or noodles, making it an ideal vegetarian option for family dinners or casual gatherings. Simple to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chopped bell pepper, chopped onion, and garlic powder for several hours to develop flavors.
- Cook pasta shells or noodles according to package directions.
- Cook the white navy beans if they are not pre-cooked.
- Mix the cooked pasta, beans, and the simmered sauce together and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the bell pepper and onion before adding them to the sauce. You can substitute white navy beans with chickpeas or lentils if desired. Adjust the garlic powder to your taste, or use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor. This recipe is versatile; feel free to add in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Check out No-Fuss Italian Tomato Sauce for a quick sauce option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the unusual pasta with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for extra flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, you can serve it alongside Low-Fat Tortellini Salad. This dish is great for meal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unusual Pasta contains roughly 176 calories, with 6g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (96% of the Daily Value), potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).