Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't leave you feeling sluggish? Whole grain pasta is a fantastic way to enjoy satisfying carbs while boosting your fiber and nutrient intake. Forget the refined flour versions; whole grain pasta offers a richer flavor and a significant nutritional upgrade. This blog post provides easy recipes using whole grain pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend meal. Get ready to elevate your pasta game!
Lemon Herb Whole Grain Pasta with Shrimp
This light and flavorful dish is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a perfect healthy meal option. It's quick to prepare, making it an ideal quick dinner idea for those busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces whole grain pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and let it simmer for a minute until slightly reduced.
- Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you desire a spicy kick.
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve immediately and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, use shrimp with the tails on and remove them before serving.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; it should be opaque and firm.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a heartier meal.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs (use about 1/3 the amount).
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the shrimp and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Creamy: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or cream cheese at the end for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fiber: 8-10 grams
This recipe is a great example of delicious and healthy food recipes, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated; this simple yet satisfying dish proves that healthy meals can be both quick and incredibly flavorful. It's one of the best recipes for showcasing the versatility of whole grain pasta and its ability to create satisfying and nutritious meals. Enjoy!