Description
This Creamy Protein-Packed Pasta Bowl is a wholesome and satisfying meal featuring whole grain pasta tossed with sautéed garlic, onions, cherry tomatoes, and spinach, combined with protein-rich chicken or chickpeas. The dish is enriched with a creamy blend of ricotta cheese and Greek yogurt, topped with Parmesan and fresh basil for a flavorful, nutritious dinner ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 8 oz whole grain pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (or canned chickpeas for a vegetarian option)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
Creamy Sauce
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Sauté Garlic and Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and aromatic.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.
- Cook the Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute, blending the flavors together.
- Add Protein: Add the diced cooked chicken breast or canned chickpeas to the skillet, mixing well with the sautéed vegetables to incorporate the protein.
- Prepare and Add Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth. Add this mixture to the skillet along with the drained pasta and reserved pasta cooking water, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Combine and Heat Through: Cook the combined mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until heated through and creamy.
- Season and Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to combine.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
Notes
- Use whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Substitute chicken with canned chickpeas for a vegetarian protein option.
- Reserve pasta water to help create a creamy sauce without adding cream.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference to balance flavors.
- Fresh basil and lemon enhance the dish with freshness and acidity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
