Low Calorie/High Protein BANZA Pasta with Marinara Sauce

Banza pasta is our newest obsession.  We had heard a lot about this ‘healthier’ pasta and we were shocked at how absurdly delicious it was.  It’s very filling and very nutritious.  Chickpeas are also a secret superfood - they're naturally gluten free, low on the glycemic index, these are certified non-GMO.  Each service has 25 grams of protein (double your average pasta) and 1.3 grams of fiber. It also has roughly 40% less carbs per serving than your average noodle because it’s made with chickpeas. Oh and it’s SO DANG GOOD.  Everyone who tried it immediately asked ‘WHERE CAN WE GET THIS I AM NEVER HAVING NORMAL PASTA AGAIN’.  Not to mention, this recipe is a delicious twist on a classic marinara sauce pasta. You can read more about Banza and where to find it below. We also made 2 other delicious recipes with Banza that you could try!

Chickpea Pasta with Marinara Sauce and Ricotta

Prep: 10-15 min; Cook: 30 mins; Total time: 45 mins

Makes: 8 servings (freeze what’s remaining of sauce!)

• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans stewed tomatoes

• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste

• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 6 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/3 cup finely diced onion

• 1/2 cup white wine

Instructions

1. In a food processor place Italian tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat sauté the finely chopped onion in olive oil for 2 minutes. Add the blended tomato sauce and white wine.

3. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. While the sauce remains on low heat (the flavors will only intensify), boil a large pot of water and cook Banza pasta for 7-8 minutes.

5. Drain pasta and cover with sauce. Add in a few large scoops of ricotta and mix together (this adds such a fantastic thickness and flavor).

6. Serve in a large casserole dish with scoops of ricotta (do not mix these in) and top with a garnish like basil!

More about Banza:

• Yes Canadian friends you can get it! You can order a variety pack (6 boxes) on Amazon for 47 CAD.

• They are revolutionizing how much pasta we can eat! Even Kristen Bell loves them and we love her!

• Check out their adorable Instagram for recipe inspo or search #EatBanza

• Learn more about the nutritional profile of Banza on their website.