This black bean pasta bowl recipe can be on your table in less than thirty minutes and only requires a few ingredients. Who doesn't love that when time is short, and everyone is hungry?
In my opinion, the black bean pasta is superior to wheat pasta because it packs 14 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber in every serving. When you add vegetables, you have a completely nutritionally balanced meal with the bonus of great flavor.
This recipe is big enough to serve a crowd and is vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free. If you're not serving a crowd, it's perfect for leftovers. Just reheat in the microwave and you have an easy and healthy lunch for the week.
Any bowl recipes like this black bean pasta bowl or grilled polenta bowl are perfect for easy meal prep. They can easily be stored in an airtight container and reheated for a simple and tasty lunch.
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Health Benefits
Black bean pasta is so much healthier than wheat flour pasta. The Trader Joe's Rotini has (per 56 grams or ¾ cup) only 1.5 grams of fat, 15 grams of fiber, and 14 grams of protein.
Black beans are rich in antioxidants and high in fiber. Great for promoting heart health. Did you know black beans can also be used in desserts, like this black bean brownie cake? You can have a vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free dessert that is packed with protein and fiber.
Mushrooms are also a great source of nutrients. They contain protein, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Mushrooms contain important minerals such as phosphorus, iron, and potassium that can be hard to obtain through a vegan diet.
If you need another reason why this black bean pasta bowl is good for you I have it. Red bell peppers are not only sweet and delicious but they are a great source of vitamin C. They are low in calories, carbs, and fat, but are packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
This bowl is wholesome, packed with nutritious foods that complement each other, and quick to prep. Here are the ingredients needed to make a black bean pasta bowl.
- Black bean rotini - I use the Trader Joe's Rotini and highly recommend it.
- Mushrooms - White button mushrooms, crimino mushrooms (baby bella), or portobello mushrooms are a few you can use.
- Yellow bell pepper
- Red bell pepper
- Marinara - Use your favorite jarred marinara sauce or make your own.
- Granulated garlic - garlic powder will also work.
- Salt and pepper - to taste.
Variations
The yellow and red bell peppers add a nice sweetness to this, but you can also add more vegetables for extra nutrition. Here are some of my favorites to add to this black bean pasta bowl.
- Green peppers
- Snow peas
- Edamame
- Corn
- Tomatoes
- Broccoli
If you like a little heat in your dish, red chili flakes are a great addition.
Tips
This black bean pasta bowl is a delicious and easy-to-make meal. The best part is that it's vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free! Here are some tips for making this recipe.
- Cut the mushrooms into similar sizes for easier cooking and do not overcrowd the pan.
- Allow enough time for your oil to get hot before sauteing the mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Make this recipe for easy meal prep. This black bean pasta bowl is great for making ahead for easy lunches during the week.
- If you're making this recipe for easy lunches, store the sauce in a separate container and add it to the bowl when you are ready to eat.
- For a spicier dish add some red pepper flakes to taste.
- Switch up the vegetables by using snow peas, edamame, broccoli, or my favorite which is using whatever is in season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! This black bean pasta bowl is perfect for meal prep. Add the pasta and sautéed vegetables to an airtight container with the sauce on the side. When you are ready to eat, add the sauce, mix, and microwave. There you have it. Easy meal prepped lunches for the whole week!
It's a great source of protein for vegan and vegetarian diets. It is healthier than traditional pasta and contains more nutrients. Black bean pasta is also gluten-free!
However, you can substitute whole wheat pasta in this recipe if black bean pasta just isn't your thing.
Black bean pasta bowl can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days in the fridge. Simply reheat leftovers in the microwave and enjoy! For meal prep or if you know you won't be eating all of it at once, I recommend storing the sauce separately.
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For more delicious recipes from Green Scheme check out some of these tasty dishes.
Recipe
Black Bean Pasta Bowl
Ingredients
- 12 ounce bag black bean pasta I used Trader Joe's
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups sliced red and yellow peppers
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Saute mushrooms and red pepper in olive oil for 5 minutes on medium high heat. Add salt and granulated garlic.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Add marinara sauce to vegetables that have been sauteed. Add pasta and stir. Serve with choice of herbs for garnish.
Notes
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