Description
Craving a bold and creamy pasta dish that’s packed with protein and flavor? This Spicy Garlic Parmesan Lentil Pasta is a quick dinner idea and perfect for anyone looking for an easy recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste or nutrition. With garlic-infused olive oil, a touch of heat, and rich parmesan cheese coating high-protein lentil rotini, it’s a fantastic twist on a classic comfort food. Whether you’re exploring healthy snack options, gluten-free food ideas, or hearty dinner ideas, this is the easy dinner recipe you’ll want to keep in rotation.
Ingredients
12 oz rotini lentil pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or regular milk
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional add-ins: grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lentil pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 7–9 minutes. Stir occasionally. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds.
3. Lower the heat. Add almond milk and stir to combine. Gradually add grated parmesan while stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with black pepper, salt, and lemon zest if using.
4. Add cooked lentil pasta into the skillet. Toss gently to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
5. Let the pasta sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Cook lentil pasta just until al dente—it softens quickly and can become mushy.
Freshly grated parmesan ensures a smoother sauce and better flavor than pre-packaged.
Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency and help it coat the pasta evenly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 340
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 10
- Protein: 23
- Cholesterol: 15