Who doesn’t love pasta? Around the world, it’s known as one of the favorite comfort foods, but if you’re on a low-carb diet, gluten-free, or you want to try something new, vegetables are a great substitute for pasta. They’re full of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, and they’ll add some variety to your meal. Next time you’re craving pasta, try these alternatives instead.
Zucchini and Cucumbers
All you have to do is spiralize them and treat them like angel hair pasta— cook them for one to two minutes, until they are barely tender and drain them. Add some sesame, chilies, lemon, butter, and herbs.
Squash and Sweet Potatoes
When spaghetti squash is cooked, its strands look similar to pasta. The flavor is pretty neutral so it pairs well with many different types of sauces. Butternut squash and sweet potatoes also work well as alternatives, all you have to do is chop them and throw them in a food processor. Throw on a cheesy sauce or sauteed garlic and spinach and your meal is complete!
Eggplant
Eggplant goes well in lasagna and casseroles. Just thinly slice it into planks with a mandoline and pan-sear it until it softens.
Beets
Beets make the perfect ravioli when they’re roasted or steamed, then thinly sliced with a mandoline. Pair them with goat cheese or mozzarella and then drizzle the dish with olive oil.
