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Vibrant and Nutritious Healthy Pasta Dinners

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A vibrant and nourishing pasta dish made with whole grain pasta, lean chicken, and fresh vegetables – a delicious way to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz whole grain pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Optional: 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered
  • Optional: 1/4 cup olives, sliced
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Gather and prep all ingredients: wash and slice vegetables, mince garlic, and grate cheese.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  3. Cook the pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes), then drain.
  4. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add red bell pepper slices and cook for 3–4 minutes.
  7. Stir in cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.
  8. Add drained pasta to the skillet with vegetables.
  9. Pour in lemon juice and toss everything to combine.
  10. Add grilled chicken and stir to heat through.
  11. Remove from heat and top with Parmesan and basil.
  12. Serve hot, with optional toppings like artichokes or red pepper flakes.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan and fresh lemon juice for optimal flavor. Lightly toast pine nuts before adding for enhanced nuttiness. Avoid overcooking pasta to maintain a firm texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy pasta, whole grain, chicken pasta, vegetables, dinner

Find it online: https://www.eatbrightly.com/vibrant-nutritious-healthy-pasta-dinners/