Easy, Healthy, and Budget-Friendly: The Ultimate Weeknight Pasta

Looking for a delicious, affordable meal that’s quick to make and packed with nutrients? This versatile pasta dish checks all the boxes! With whole-grain pasta, hearty beans, and fresh vegetables, this recipe delivers fiber, protein, and vitamins in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with what you have on hand.

Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes and costs around $10–$12 to make, serving about 4 people. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Nutritious: Loaded with fiber from whole-grain pasta and beans, plus vitamins from the greens and veggies.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or use leftovers to reduce waste.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta, preferably whole grain (adds fiber and nutrients)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped, or 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 bag or bunch of leafy greens like baby kale or spinach (not lettuce like romaine)
• 1 cup roughly chopped fresh tomatoes or ⅔ of a 15-oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 can white or garbanzo beans (your source of protein!)
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning or a mix of basil, oregano, parsley, and thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh basil, pine nuts, chopped olives, grated parmesan or plant-based cheese, nutritional yeast.

Add-ins (Choose One or More):

• 1 carrot, sliced into disks
• 1 cup broccoli or cauliflower florets
• ½ cup peas
• Other bite-sized raw veggies or leftover cooked veggies

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta and Veggies:
   Boil the pasta according to package directions. Add longer-cooking veggies (like carrots) to the water early on and quicker-cooking ones (like broccoli) later. If using pre-cooked veggies, set them aside to add later.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add garlic and greens, cooking until wilted. Stir in tomatoes and cook until softened or heated through. Add the beans and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
3. Combine Everything:
   Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Stir in the tomato mixture, cooked veggies, and any seasonings to taste. Toss well to coat.
4. Serve and Garnish:
   Top with your favorite garnishes—like fresh basil or grated cheese—for an extra pop of flavor.

Tips and Tricks

• Meal Prep Hero: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers the next day.
• Pantry-Friendly: Keep canned beans, pasta, and tomatoes stocked for when you need a quick meal.
• Get Creative: Experiment with different veggies or spices to keep things interesting.

Nutrition Spotlight

This meal is a great source of fiber, plant-based protein, and vitamins:

• Whole-grain pasta: High in complex carbs and fiber to keep you full longer.
• Leafy greens: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron.
• Beans: A plant-based protein powerhouse.

Give this affordable, nutritious recipe a try—it’s proof that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive!