How to Make Creative Meals with Pasta

Pasta can be a versatile, creative and healthy dish, especially when combined with veggies and lean proteins. There are so many varieties available whether fresh, dry, or frozen that can help you to make superfast and superhealthy lunches and suppers. Here are a few creative ideas for pasta dishes.

Use your leftovers in pasta. All you need to do to revitalize last night's leftovers is to cook up a batch of fresh pasta, grate some cheese, and perhaps chop up some fresh tomatoes, olives, or baby spinach. Don't be inhibited because you didn't cook Italian food. Perhaps you had Mexican seafood or fajitas? Simply toss your penne or elbows with the veggies and meat or seafood, and add some salsa and lowfat sour cream for a really tasty Mexican pasta dish. Grate some lowfat cheddar and jack on top and perhaps some chopped scallions. Did you make an Asian stir fry? Toss it with hot linguini or fettuccine, add some extra soy or teriyaki, a splash of Mirin or sake, and top with toasted sesame seeds. Add some quickly steamed shrimp for added protein and flavor.

You don't have to make a special trip to the store for a stellar pasta dish. Even the most basic ingredients can dress up this hearty, healthy staple. If you have eggs, cheese, tomato, onion and or garlic you can make a delicious meal. Check out your freezer for frozen leftover meat or quick cooking shrimp. Check your pantry for your favorite treats, such as anchovies, capers, sardines, water chestnuts, or whatever tickles your fancy. Scan your fridge and chop up any veggies. Sauté them with some garlic and onions, salt, pepper and your favorite herbs or seasoning. If you have wine, or even some juice, use it to deglaze the pan. Then toss in your pasta of choice with a small amount of pasta water and stir until combined. You can serve it as is, grate cheese over top, stir in beaten eggs, or add your shrimp which cook quickly. Let your imagination fly with the ingredients at hand.

Pasta doesn't have to be complicated. Assemble a simple green salad with tomatoes and vinaigrette dressing. Cook up some frozen cheese ravioli or gnocchi. Dress the pasta with some good quality extra virgin olive oil, a little minced garlic, salt, pepper and grated Romano or Parmigiano. If you have some fresh herbs such as Italian parsley, thyme or basil add them. It's a simple, wholesomely satisfying meal.

When you have the time and really want to make a hearty lasagna, manicotti, or stuffed shells, double the batch. It doesn't take that much longer and they actually taste better after the flavors marry over time. You can freeze whole in the casserole dish, or cut into smaller portions and freeze that way.

Pasta ideas and recipes are truly endless. Depending on the season, the type of pasta and the cook, there are probably no end to the different preparations. Hopefully some of these ideas will inspire you to create your own healthy and hearty pasta dishes. Mangia!