The Budget-Friendly Protein To Try In Your Next Pasta

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are an excellent budget-friendly protein option that can elevate your next pasta dish. These legumes are not only affordable but also incredibly versatile, making them an ideal choice for enhancing both taste and nutrition. Chickpeas are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, which helps promote satiety and support a balanced diet. They have a mild, nutty flavor that complements a variety of pasta sauces, from classic marinara to creamy Alfredo. Cooking with chickpeas is simple; they can be used canned or cooked from scratch, and they easily absorb the flavors of the dish they are added to. For a quick meal, toss cooked chickpeas with your favorite pasta, olive oil, garlic, and fresh vegetables for a hearty, satisfying dish. You can also roast them with spices for added texture and flavor before mixing them into your pasta. Incorporating chickpeas into your meals is not only a cost-effective way to increase your protein intake but also a delicious strategy to diversify your culinary repertoire while maintaining a focus on health and well-being.
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Making the best canned salmon pasta

Canned salmon is a fantastic ingredient for a variety of pasta dishes, giving you plenty of options for creating a Sicilian-inspired seafood pasta. If your salmon is packed in water or oil, be sure to drain it before adding it to your recipe to preserve the creamy, rich texture that defines a great pasta dish.

With its rich, buttery taste complemented by hints of the sea, canned salmon pairs beautifully with a simple lemon-garlic butter and cream spaghetti. For a more indulgent option, try a creamy fettuccine topped with a white sauce that enhances the subtle flavors of the canned fish. You can also elevate your dish by using the salmon as a flavorful topping for a pesto-coated angel hair pasta—just remember to finish it off with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Alternatively, consider making a refreshing salmon dill pasta salad.

Feel free to get creative! Why not try stuffing ravioli or tortellini with cream cheese and canned salmon? Or use the canned fish to add a twist to the ever-popular feta pasta? The possibilities are endless, so explore flavors that excite your palate and relish each bite, all while saving money. And if you love canned salmon in your pasta, just wait until you try canned tuna in your weeknight meals!

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