10 Low Calorie Pasta Dishes You Need To Try

Pasta is a beloved dish around the world, but it often gets a bad rap for being high in calories and carbohydrates. Fortunately, there are countless ways to enjoy pasta while keeping your calorie intake in check. Here, we’ll explore 10 low-calorie pasta dishes that you absolutely need to try! 🍝✨

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=10+Low+Calorie+Pasta+Dishes+You+Need+To+Try" alt="10 Low Calorie Pasta Dishes You Need To Try" /> </div>

1. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto 🌱

Zucchini noodles, or "zoodles," are an excellent low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta. By spiralizing zucchini, you can create a fresh and light base for your favorite pesto sauce.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 1 cup fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Spiralize the zucchinis.
  2. In a blender, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the pesto.
  3. Toss the zoodles with the pesto and enjoy!

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Zucchini+Noodles+with+Pesto" alt="Zucchini Noodles with Pesto" /> </div>

2. Spaghetti Squash with Marinara 🍅

Spaghetti squash is another fantastic low-calorie pasta alternative. Its stringy texture mimics traditional pasta, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 1 spaghetti squash
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Instructions:

  1. Cut the spaghetti squash in half and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40 minutes.
  2. Scrape out the flesh to create spaghetti-like strands.
  3. Top with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese if desired.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Spaghetti+Squash+with+Marinara" alt="Spaghetti Squash with Marinara" /> </div>

3. Whole Wheat Pasta Primavera 🌽

Whole wheat pasta is a healthier option compared to regular pasta as it retains more fiber and nutrients. Combine it with seasonal vegetables for a vibrant and low-calorie meal.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Sauté the mixed vegetables in olive oil.
  3. Combine pasta and vegetables, adding salt and pepper to taste.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Whole+Wheat+Pasta+Primavera" alt="Whole Wheat Pasta Primavera" /> </div>

4. Shirataki Noodles with Garlic Shrimp 🍤

Shirataki noodles are made from konjac yam and contain very few calories. Pairing them with garlic shrimp makes for an incredibly light and flavorful dish.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 8 oz shirataki noodles
  • 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Lemon juice and parsley for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Rinse and drain the shirataki noodles.
  2. Sauté shrimp and garlic in olive oil until shrimp are pink.
  3. Toss with shirataki noodles, drizzle with lemon juice, and garnish with parsley.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Shirataki+Noodles+with+Garlic+Shrimp" alt="Shirataki Noodles with Garlic Shrimp" /> </div>

5. Eggplant Lasagna 🍆

This low-carb version of lasagna substitutes layers of eggplant for traditional pasta sheets, making it a delicious and healthy alternative.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese

• Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Layer eggplant slices, ricotta, marinara, and mozzarella in a baking dish.
  3. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Eggplant+Lasagna" alt="Eggplant Lasagna" /> </div>

6. Cauliflower Gnocchi with Sage Butter 🥟

Cauliflower gnocchi is a delightful low-calorie twist on a classic Italian dish. Pair it with sage butter for a rich and aromatic flavor.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 1 package cauliflower gnocchi
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh sage leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions.
  2. In a pan, melt butter and add sage leaves until crispy.
  3. Toss gnocchi with sage butter, season with salt and pepper.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Cauliflower+Gnocchi+with+Sage+Butter" alt="Cauliflower Gnocchi with Sage Butter" /> </div>

7. Lentil Pasta with Tomato Sauce 🍝

Lentil pasta is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling yet low-calorie option. Pair it with a simple tomato sauce for an easy meal.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 8 oz lentil pasta
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • Italian herbs for seasoning

• Instructions:

  1. Cook lentil pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Heat tomato sauce and season with herbs.
  3. Combine pasta and sauce before serving.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="httpsse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Lentil+Pasta+with+Tomato+Sauce" alt="Lentil Pasta with Tomato Sauce" /> </div>

8. Chickpea Pasta with Spinach and Feta 🥗

Chickpea pasta offers a deliciously nutty flavor and a good source of protein. When combined with spinach and feta, it becomes a fulfilling dish that you’ll love!

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 8 oz chickpea pasta
  • 2 cups spinach
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese
  • Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Cook chickpea pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted.
  3. Combine pasta, spinach, and feta; season with salt and pepper.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Chickpea+Pasta+with+Spinach+and+Feta" alt="Chickpea Pasta with Spinach and Feta" /> </div>

9. Cabbage Noodles with Meat Sauce 🌭

Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be used as a noodle substitute in this hearty dish. It pairs beautifully with a meaty sauce for a satisfying meal.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 1 head of cabbage, shredded
  • 1 lb ground turkey or beef
  • 1 cup marinara sauce

• Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground meat in a pan.
  2. Add marinara sauce and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Sauté cabbage in another pan until tender, then serve with meat sauce.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Cabbage+Noodles+with+Meat+Sauce" alt="Cabbage Noodles with Meat Sauce" /> </div>

10. Quinoa Pasta Salad 🥗

Quinoa pasta is gluten-free and provides a unique twist on pasta salad. It’s healthy, colorful, and perfect for meal prep!

Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 8 oz quinoa pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil and vinegar for dressing

• Instructions:

  1. Cook quinoa pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Combine with tomatoes, cucumber, and dressing in a large bowl.
  3. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Quinoa+Pasta+Salad" alt="Quinoa Pasta Salad" /> </div>

These 10 low-calorie pasta dishes provide delicious options for anyone looking to enjoy pasta without the extra calories. From zucchini noodles to chickpea pasta, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead, try these recipes, and savor the flavors without the guilt! 🌟