Easy Black Bean Pasta with Quick Tomato Sauce Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Is black bean pasta healthier than regular pasta? ›

Black bean noodles are a healthy, gluten-free alternative to regular noodles. Black bean pasta is great for digestion, heart health, and lowering cholesterol levels because it is a natural source of fiber. This pasta has almost eight times the amount of protein and iron as regular pasta.

If you're using a plain tomato (marinara) sauce, stir in seasonings to add extra flavor. Red pepper flakes, dehydrated or fresh garlic, dried oregano, parsley, or basil, or an Italian seasoning blend are all good options.

Tossing in strips of basil, a sprig of thyme or some oregano can take your sauce to the next level. Although fresh herbs might pop a bit more, dried herbs and spices can work just as well. Sprinkling in some red pepper flakes, a pinch of parsley and a dash of salt and pepper can liven up your jarred pasta sauce.

Rather than having a thin consistency like a traditional marinara, tomato sauce is often thicker and sits on top of your pasta dishes. The flavors of a tomato sauce are simmered together slowly, giving them time to develop. The end result is a red sauce that is traditionally a bit sweeter than a marinara.

The best bang for your buck when it comes to weight loss is chickpea pasta, according to Kaytee. "With twice as much fiber and protein, you'll be able to stay satisfied with your meal and consume fewer calories than the other pasta options, helping you to achieve your weight goals," she says.

The addition of butter helps to loosen and emulsify the sauce, making it smooth and creamy.

Garlic butter is a terrific way to season all types of noodles. Simply melt butter and sprinkle in some garlic powder. Toss your spaghetti or favorite type of pasta in this delightful mixture to create a filling and appetizing meal.

What to put in spaghetti sauce to make it taste better? ›

Pungent fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, tarragon, and marjoram can liven up tomato sauce with their bold, distinctive flavors. Add 1 to 2 sprigs of one or more of them to your favorite sauce, cover, and simmer at least 5 minutes to allow them to infuse in the sauce. Remove the sprigs before serving.

A hefty drizzle of olive oil stirred in off the heat is also a great move. And if you're feeling really spunky, add some meaty richness to that sauce: crisp some bacon or brown sliced sausages or ground meat. For some veggie richness, sauté mushrooms or caramelize fennel in plenty of olive oil.

For Chef Cava, there's no better use of marinara sauce than for dipping mozzarella sticks in. Since tomato sauce is heavier, with a more pronounced flavor, it's perfect for hearty pasta dishes like spaghetti and meatballs or chicken cacciatore.

Tomato sauce works well for spaghetti and meatballs and in lasagna, but has many other uses as well—such as on chicken cacciatore, eggplant or chicken parmesan, and as a base for eggs in purgatory or shakshuka.

Technically, pasta sauce is any sauce typically paired with pasta — like pesto, bolognese, Alfredo, and marinara as well. But people usually think of a more robust and flavorful tomato sauce as classic "pasta sauce." There are really no hard-and-fast rules on what can simply be called pasta sauce.

“If you're aiming for fewer carbohydrates and calories, try veggie pastas,” Thayer said. “They'll have slightly fewer or similar amounts of fiber and much less protein than traditional pasta, but they're a great alternative for anyone – especially for those with gluten sensitivities, wheat allergies or celiac disease.”

FULL NUTRITION

3x the protein, 6x the fiber, and 6x fewer net carbs than regular pasta.

Chickpea pasta is a healthy alternative to white pasta, providing more fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, most types are suitable for gluten-free diets. Its fiber and protein may support blood sugar management, weight maintenance, digestive health, and a reduced risk of numerous health conditions.