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red lentil pasta with vegan basil-pistachio pesto

by Jackie Newgent  |  January 8, 2018  |  4 Comments
What’s one of my favorite ways to go plant-based for lunch or dinner without giving up a thing? This red lentil pasta with vegan basil-pistachio pesto. In other words, a bowl of yum! If you happen to be looking for a comforting pasta dish that’s actually good for you, this is one of the recipes at the top my my list! And if you need to go gluten-free, this recipe is a winner, too.
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grilled hummus toast with middle eastern salsa

by Jackie Newgent  |  February 12, 2017  |  3 Comments
Sure, I’m a big fan of avocado toast. I know I’m not alone in that! But when I don’t have a ripe avocado, this is my toast of choice! It’s inspired by my heritage—-I’m half Lebanese. That means I’m pretty much going to enjoy hummus anything. For this recipe, instead of toasting bread, I grill it for extra interest and smoky flair. And yes, a pan grill works well. The salsa is inspired by Mexican pico de gallo, but it includes cucumber and the herbs are switched up a bit. (I enjoy this salsa anytime; but it’s especially delicious when tomatoes are at peak season, of course!) As for the hummus, make your own or take a shortcut and buy...
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veggie & red lentil rotini pasta bowl

by Jackie Newgent  |  January 30, 2017  |  0 Comments
If you’ve got about 15 minutes, make this veggie pasta bowl! That’s what I often do when I’m short on time for dinner! But vegetarian pasta dishes don’t always provide enough protein for a complete meal. So, here’s what I like to do: Use a pasta made from red lentils. I love, love, love lentils for so many reasons, including that the little pulses are packed with plant protein and can help play a role in regulating blood cholesterol and blood sugar levels! (By the way, I chose Tolerant Organic Red Lentil Pasta here, which I picked up at Whole Foods Market.) Hope you try this meal-in-one pasta bowl on Meatless Monday–and beyond. It’s not fancy, but it’s flavorful! Enjoy!...
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vegan charred asparagus pasta salad

by Jackie Newgent  |  April 3, 2016  |  2 Comments
When asparagus is in season, you betcha I’m going to find a way to eat it in every way possible! Though I crave the springy green veggie in a creamy pasta, like fettuccine alfredo, that’s obviously not so calorie- or heart-friendly. This recipe is my better-for-you answer to an asparagus-pasta combination. I’ve gone the pasta salad route since it’s more seasonal to be served with the warmer weather to come. You can use your favorite pasta pick; I’ve chosen an organic red lentil rotini here since it’s super healthy! Plus I wanted an option to serve to my gluten-free friends. But best of all, I’ve grilled the asparagus for that extra special smoky flavor and crave-worthiness! Enjoy this Meatless Monday-style...
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italian freekeh “meatballs”

by Jackie Newgent  |  December 28, 2015  |  4 Comments
You don’t need to give up spaghetti and meatballs when eating healthier. Simply pick a better-for-you pasta, like bean-based or whole grain noodles, and top with vegetarian “meatballs”. I’ve made these with 100% real ingredients and based them on cracked freekeh, which is a young green wheat. They’re not designed to mock meat; they have a culinary quality of their own. The texture and taste of the “meatballs” are craveable … no meat required! Ideally, serve these freekeh balls with protein-packed pasta, such as edamame, lentil, chickpea, or other bean-based noodles, and sauce of choice. Instead of marinara, I prefer these “meatballs” served with Mediterranean diet appeal, such as paired with pesto or fresh lemon-olive oil sauce. Try accessories like...
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