Welcome back, athletes! At LEAP, we believe that a healthy lifestyle is not just about breaking a sweat in the gym but also providing your body with the right fuel. Today, we're diving into the world of pasta, proving that it can be a delicious and beneficial addition to your fitness journey. Get ready to indulge guilt-free with our three mouthwatering and healthy pasta dishes!
Whole Wheat Veggie Primavera:
Ingredients:
Whole wheat pasta
Broccoli
Bell peppers (assorted colors)
Cherry tomatoes
Spinach
Olive oil
Garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions.
In a pan, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
Add broccoli, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until veggies are tender yet crisp.
Toss in cooked pasta and spinach, allowing it to wilt slightly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
Whole wheat pasta provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Colorful vegetables offer a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Olive oil adds healthy fats for satiety and joint support.
Protein-Packed Chickpea Pesto Pasta:
Ingredients:
Chickpea pasta
Grilled chicken breast, diced
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Cook chickpea pasta as directed on the package.
Grill chicken breast and dice it into bite-sized pieces.
In a bowl, mix cooked pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and basil pesto.
Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutritional Benefits:
Chickpea pasta offers a protein boost and is gluten-free.
Grilled chicken provides lean protein for muscle repair.
Basil pesto adds a flavorful dose of antioxidants and healthy fats.
Zucchini Noodles with Turkey Bolognese:
Ingredients:
Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
Ground turkey
Crushed tomatoes
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a pan until softened.
Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Simmer until the sauce thickens.
Serve the Bolognese sauce over zucchini noodles.
Nutritional Benefits:
Zucchini noodles are low in calories and high in vitamins.
Lean ground turkey provides a lean source of protein.
Tomatoes offer antioxidants like lycopene for heart health.
Who said pasta can't be a part of your fitness journey? At LEAP, we encourage you to enjoy these three healthy pasta dishes that not only satisfy your taste buds but also support your fitness goals. Remember, it's all about balance, and these nutrient-packed meals will keep you fueled and ready to conquer your workouts. So, go ahead and indulge in the goodness of pasta while taking a LEAP towards a healthier you!
If you are looking for additional nutrition support to reach your goals, check out our LEAP Nutrition Program.