A simple and delicious plant-based and gluten-free pasta recipe using Barilla® Chickpea Rotini.
With school back in session, life is getting busier, and it may feel like you don’t have time to cook a healthy, well-rounded meal. But, I’m going to show you how to make this quick and easy Lemon Asparagus Rotini, which is a veggie-packed pasta recipe with a whopping 19g of protein per 3.5oz serving!
Barilla® Chickpea Rotini
The main ingredient is Barilla® Chickpea Rotini, which makes this recipe healthy, filling, and delicious! The pasta is certified gluten-free, non-GMO Project Verified, and is made with just one simple ingredient that you can actually pronounce, chickpea flour! Did you know that legumes, such as chickpeas, are a key ingredient in the Mediterranean Diet? The Mediterranean Diet is a regimen that is known to be heart protective and has many health benefits.
Plant-based Protein Pasta
This Barilla® Chickpea pasta recipe has the perfect balance of fresh lemon, veggies, and garlic to give it an amazing flavor profile that will satisfy your palate. The plant-based pasta dish is filling without leaving you feeling weighed down or sluggish after your meal. I love when dinner can be both delicious AND healthy, and I hope you enjoy it too! You can make this Lemon Asparagus Chickpea Rotini in about 20 minutes using just a few simple, fresh ingredients.
What Ingredients Do Your Need for Lemon Asparagus Rotini?
8 oz. Barilla® Chickpea Rotini
1 bunch of asparagus
1 lemon
1/2 cup of shredded parmesan cheese
1 handful of fresh basil (or dried basil)
2 cups of chopped spinach
1 roasted red pepper (can use from jar)
2 tbsp butter (dairy or plant-based)
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1:
Fill a medium sized pot with lightly salted water, and bring water to boil. Stir in Barilla® chickpea rotini and return to boil. Cook pasta uncovered, occasionally stirring, according to package directions, for about 7-9 minutes. It is recommended to cook the rotini al dente, so it's okay if the texture still has some firmness. Drain pasta and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
Step 2:
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the asparagus and veggies. Cut the ends off of the asparagus and then cut remaining stalks into 1-inch long pieces. Mince the garlic, dice the roasted red pepper into smaller pieces, and cut the stems off the spinach and finely chop the leaves.
Step 3:
Place the asparagus pieces into a large skillet with about 1/2 inch of water. Cover the pan and let the asparagus steam until it starts to turn bright green, this will take about 3-4 minutes. Drain the asparagus and add back to skillet with minced garlic and butter. Sauté this mixture for another 3-4 minutes. Turn heat to low and add roasted red peppers and spinach, let cook for about 2 minutes.
Step 4:
Add the cooked rotini into the large skillet with the veggie mixture. Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle the fresh parmesan over the top. Slice the lemon into a wedge and squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the pasta. Stir the pasta until everything is well-combined. Garnish with salt, pepper and fresh basil leaves. If you would like, add additional lemon juice, parmesan, salt or pepper to your desired taste. Enjoy!
Where to Purchase Barilla® Chickpea Rotini?
So, if you're looking for a healthier pasta recipe that's full of flavor, packed with protein, and gluten-free, this Lemon Asparagus Rotini won’t disappoint! The recipe is easy, satisfying and delicious!
I hope I have inspired you try-out the Barilla® Chickpea Rotini! It’s available at your local Meijer store, in the pasta aisle! Beyond this recipe, you can try it with your favorite sauce or even eat "as is" with some extra virgin olive oil for an easy meal prep option that will keep you full and energized! The chickpea rotini from Barilla® adds protein and fiber to your favorite pasta dishes without sacrificing flavor or texture.