Pasta with Pesto and Olive Sauce

This light and healthy dish uses fresh herbs and spices to make a very simple, low-fat recipe. If you want to get your carbs in without feeling weighed down, this is the light meal recipe for you.

Serves 4

  1. Cook spaghetti al dente according to package directions and drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
  2. For pesto: Combine garlic, oil, green olives, parsley, and basil in a blender and blend thoroughly.
  3. Transfer pesto to a large saucepan and heat 2 minutes over medium heat until warm.
  4. Add spaghetti, black olives, salt, and reserved water to the saucepan and continue cooking until water is absorbed and spaghetti is heated. Serve immediately.

PER SERVING

Calories: 320 | Fat: 17g | Protein: 7g | Sodium: 418mg | Fiber: 3g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Sugar: 1g

Bump Up the Protein with Meat Substitutes

If you’re looking to add more protein to meatless dishes, such as this pasta dish, consider adding tofu or tempeh. They are alternatives to protein derived from the soybean, and are an easy way to add some extra protein to your meals, replacing traditional proteins like seafood or meat.