n the world of plant-based cuisine, pasta is a true champion. It’s versatile, comforting, and can be the basis for a myriad of delicious dishes. However, many people on plant-based diets worry about getting enough protein. That’s where protein-rich pasta comes into play. Made from a variety of ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and whole wheat, these pastas provide a significant protein boost, making it easier for plant-based eaters to meet their protein needs.
In this post, we’ll explore ten high-protein pasta dishes that are perfect for plant-based meal prep. Each recipe will include detailed instructions, serving size in grams, estimated macronutrients, and practical storage tips.
1. Lentil Pasta with Roasted Veggies and Pesto
For this dish, you’ll be using pasta made from lentils, which packs a considerable protein punch. Roast a mix of your favorite veggies, prepare a homemade pesto, and toss everything together with the cooked pasta.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Macros (per serving): 500 calories, 22g protein, 70g carbs, 15g fat
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Best reheated before serving.
2. Chickpea Pasta Primavera
Chickpea pasta is another excellent protein source. For this dish, sauté a selection of colorful spring vegetables and toss with cooked chickpea pasta and a light lemony sauce.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Macros (per serving): 520 calories, 26g protein, 75g carbs, 15g fat
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Best reheated before serving.
3. Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Vegan Bolognese
Whole wheat spaghetti provides more protein than its white counterpart. Pair it with a vegan Bolognese sauce made from lentils or textured vegetable protein for a satisfying, protein-rich meal.
- Serving Size: 400g
- Macros (per serving): 600 calories, 25g protein, 90g carbs, 15g fat
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Best reheated before serving.
4. Quinoa Pasta with Vegan Alfredo Sauce
Quinoa pasta is a great gluten-free, high-protein option. Pair it with a creamy vegan Alfredo sauce made from cashews and nutritional yeast for a decadent, high-protein dish.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Macros (per serving): 550 calories, 20g protein, 80g carbs, 20g fat
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Best reheated before serving.
5. Black Bean Pasta with Vegan Pesto and Roasted Tomatoes
Black bean pasta is incredibly high in protein and has a unique, hearty flavor. Pair it with a vibrant vegan pesto and sweet roasted tomatoes for a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Macros (per serving): 600 calories, 30g protein, 75g carbs, 20g fat
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Best reheated before serving.
6. Edamame Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Edamame spaghetti is another high-protein, gluten-free pasta option. Prepare a traditional Italian aglio e olio sauce with garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes, then toss with the cooked spaghetti for a simple, flavorful dish.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Macros (per serving): 580 calories, 28g protein, 65g carbs, 25g fat
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Best reheated before serving.
7. Red Lentil Penne with Vegan Vodka Sauce
Red lentil penne is a protein-rich pasta option that holds up well to hearty sauces. Prepare a vegan vodka sauce using cashew cream, and toss it with the cooked penne for a comforting, high-protein meal.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Macros (per serving): 550 calories, 26g protein, 75g carbs, 18g fat
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Best reheated before serving.
8. Buckwheat Soba Noodles with Peanut Sauce
Buckwheat soba noodles are a high-protein, gluten-free pasta option. Toss them with a savory peanut sauce and your favorite veggies for a flavorful, protein-packed dish.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Macros (per serving): 550 calories, 20g protein, 75g carbs, 20g fat
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Best reheated before serving.
9. Spelt Spaghetti with Vegan Carbonara Sauce
Spelled spaghetti is a whole-grain pasta that provides a good amount of protein. Prepare a vegan carbonara sauce using silken tofu and nutritional yeast, then toss it with the cooked spaghetti for a creamy, protein-rich dish.
- Serving Size: 400g
- Macros (per serving): 600 calories, 24g protein, 85g carbs, 18g fat
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Best reheated before serving.
10. Green Pea Pasta with Vegan Pesto and Grilled Veggies
Green pea pasta is a colorful, protein-rich pasta option. Pair it with a vibrant vegan pesto and grilled veggies for a nutritious, high-protein dish.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Macros (per serving): 530 calories, 25g protein, 70g carbs, 18g fat
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Best reheated before serving.
Pasta dishes can be both comforting and protein-packed, especially when you choose the right types of pasta. These plant-based, high-protein pasta dishes offer variety and nutritional value, ensuring that your meal prep never gets boring. Enjoy creating these recipes, and remember, the kitchen is a place for creativity – feel free to make these dishes your own.
We’d love to hear your thoughts about these high-protein pasta recipes. Feel free to leave a comment below sharing your experiences and favorite pasta recipes. If you found this post helpful, consider sharing it with other plant-based eaters in your life. Happy cooking!
