'The Independent' recently offered readers some simple suggestions for making a delicious pasta dish better for your health.
Here are 5 things they recommend:
1. Don't Forget the Veggies: Lightly sauté or steam some vegetables that are high in nutrients, including potassium and vitamin A. 'The Independent' recommends trying:, spinach, onions, peppers, eggplant or squash.
2. Throw In Some Protein: While chicken is high in protein, and delicious with pasta, alternatives like walnuts, tofu and beans are all high-protein alternatives. According to 'Eating Well,' just adding walnuts to a pesto sauce can easily add five grams of protein to your meal.
3. Try Whole Grain Pasta: Whole grains are good for supporting a healthy heart and, when covered in sauce and cheese, it's hard to tell the difference.
4. Use Fresh Herbs: Whether its parsley, rosemary or thyme, fresh herbs not only add a lot of flavor, they also can add a lot of minerals to your pasta dishes.
5. Nothing Beats Homemade Sauce: 'The Independent' points out that making your own sauce is much simpler than many people may think. A delicious, and healthy, sauce can be whipped together in just a few minutes. Using fresh tomatoes, garlic and herbs can also give your pasta dish a boost of Vitamin K.