Are you ready to fall in love with your next meal? The "High Protein Vegan Marry Me Pasta Meal Prep" is not just a dish; it's a culinary romance waiting to happen! Packed with protein-rich chickpeas and vibrant veggies, this Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for meal prepping and will have your taste buds dancing. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delightful and nutritious meal that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Dive into this irresistible recipe and discover how easy it is to create a satisfying and wholesome dish that will make you say, "I do!"
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups spinach
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the drained chickpeas and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are lightly golden and crispy.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and prepare the fresh spinach leaves. Set aside.
- When the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Return the pasta to the pot and add the crispy chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Toss gently to combine and slightly wilt the spinach.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce and bring all ingredients together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Divide the pasta into 4 meal prep containers. Allow to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.
- The meal prep pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture. This will help it hold up well during reheating and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Crispy Chickpeas: For an extra crunch, consider roasting the chickpeas in the oven instead of sautéing them. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Seasoning Magic: Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional herbs and spices! A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor profile and add a delightful kick.
- Fresh Spinach: Add the spinach at the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. It should wilt just enough to blend in without losing its fresh appeal.
- Meal Prep Containers: Use clear, airtight containers for your meal prep. Not only do they keep your pasta fresh, but they also let you see your delicious creation, making it even more tempting to grab for lunch or dinner.
- Reheating Tips: When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to the pasta to keep it moist and flavorful. Stir well to ensure even heating.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale can work wonderfully in this dish. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful pasta recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your meal prep rotation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
