Gluten-Free Tomato & Basil Veggie Pasta

Set to change the way we think about pasta forever, Legume Pasta is all the rage right now, with Aussie foodies and nutritionists approving of its delicious taste and incredible health benefits.

With research showing that Aussies are still not eating enough vegetables, legume pasta offers a great solution (especially for fussy eaters!).

Dietitian Rebecca Gawthorne aka Nourish Naturally says legumes are an important part of our everyday diet. “Legumes are a nutritious, plant-based and gluten-free powerhouse, loaded with protein to help keep you feeling full and fibre for a healthy gut.”

Barilla, the masters of pasta, have just launched a new range of single-ingredient legume pasta, made with either 100% chickpea or red lentil flour. The range pairs perfectly with all meats, vegetables and sauces and is a delicious way to jam-pack more vegetables into your diet.

Try this delicious Tomato and Basil Veggie Pasta on the kids... they are sure to love it!

Ingredients

• 250g grams Barilla Red Lentil Penne (uncooked)
• 1 large eggplant, finely chopped  
• 2 zucchinis, finely chopped  
• 4 tbs sundried tomatoes, sliced
• 2 tbs extra virgin olive oil + extra for baking veggies
• 400g chopped tomatoes 
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• Pinch of dried basil leaves
• 1 tbs tomato paste 
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• Fresh basil leaves 

Method

1. Preheat oven to 200C. Place eggplant and zucchini on a baking tray and coat generously with olive oil. Bake until cooked through and golden. 
2. Prepare Red Lentil Penne according to packet instructions. 
3. Heat olive oil on pan and cook garlic for 1 minute. Add tomatoes, paste, sugar & boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Stir through dried basil.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pan. Stir through veggies, pasta sauce and top with fresh basil leaves. Place in a large serving dish. Enjoy!

Recipe by Dietitian & Nutritionist Rebecca Gawthorne for Barilla Australia