Mediterranean-Inspired Pasta and Sweets
A delicious and heart-healthy recipe inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, perfect for supporting a diet aimed at lowering high cholesterol. This dish is rich in soluble fiber, plant-based proteins, and healthy fats while avoiding saturated fats and refined sugars.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the sweet side: 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
Instructions
Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, olives, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
For the sweet side, mix the berries and walnuts in a bowl. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
Serve the Mediterranean-inspired pasta alongside the sweet berry and walnut mixture. Enjoy!
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein (g) | 15 |
| Carbs (g) | 45 |
| Fiber (g) | 8 |
| Sugar (g) | 5 |
| Saturated fat (g) | 1 |
| Trans fat (g) | 0 |
| Sodium (mg) | 400 |
| Cholesterol | 0 |