Favorite Pasta Lunch Ideas (to Share with the Kids)
Learn how to make the best shortcut marinara sauce (with extra protein and iron) with this easy method. It's a great lunch to pack in a thermos or have at home.
Servings 8
Calories 291kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta
- 28 ounce jar marinara sauce
- 14 ounce can white cannellini beans
- Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain.
- Meanwhile, add the beans to a colander to drain. Rinse with cold water. Add ½ cup to a blender with the marinara sauce. Blend smooth.
- Stir as much sauce as you like into the pasta and serve warm topped with Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Make just the sauce and freeze portions using an ice cube tray. Thaw 1-2 overnight in the fridge and add to a smaller amount of pasta for one serving.
Use a 14-ounce can of tomato sauce and 1/4 cup beans as desired.
Pack in a thermos as a hot lunch.
See the rest of the post for additional pasta ideas.
Nutrition
Calories: 291kcal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 476mg | Potassium: 646mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 430IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 62mg | Iron: 3mg