Barilla Protein+ Pasta accompanied by Sausage and Mushroom Ragù
Introduction
If you appreciate pasta yet seek a high-protein, nutritional dinner, then Barilla Protein+ Pasta is the ideal option. Composed of a mixture of lentils, chickpeas, peas, and durum wheat, it provides an excellent dose of plant-based protein and fiber, rendering it suitable for athletes, fitness aficionados, or anybody seeking a healthier pasta substitute.
This dish combines Barilla Protein+ Pasta with a robust sausage and mushroom ragù, a traditional Italian sauce rich in flavor. This recipe offers a harmonious combination of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, rendering it a fulfilling and nutritious dinner.
Here’s the Barilla Protein+ Pasta with Sausage and Mushroom Ragù recipe in a table format for easy reference.
Recipe Card: Barilla Protein+ Pasta with Sausage and Mushroom Ragù
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Course | Main Dish |
Ingredients
For the Pasta
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Barilla Protein+ Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti) | 12 oz |
| Salt (for boiling water) | 1 tbsp |
For the Sausage & Mushroom Ragù
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed) | 1 lb |
| Mushrooms (cremini or baby bella) | 8 oz, sliced |
| Onion (small) | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced |
| Crushed tomatoes | 1 can (28 oz) |
| Tomato paste | 1 tbsp |
| Red wine (optional) | ½ cup |
| Beef or chicken broth | ½ cup |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Dried basil | 1 tsp |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ½ tsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
For Garnish
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Parmesan cheese | For garnish |
| Fresh basil or parsley | For garnish |
Instructions
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook Barilla Protein+ Pasta according to package instructions (8-10 minutes for al dente). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. |
| 2 | Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft (3-4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. |
| 3 | Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned (6-8 minutes). |
| 4 | Stir in mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown (5 minutes). |
| 5 | Pour in red wine (if using) and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes. |
| 6 | Add crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. |
| 7 | If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss the cooked Barilla Protein+ Pasta into the sauce and mix well. |
| 8 | Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh basil/parsley. |
Storage & Reheating
| Storage | Details |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. |
| Freezer | Freeze the sauce separately for up to 3 months. |
| Reheating | Warm over low heat on the stove, adding broth if needed. |
Reasons to Appreciate This Recipe
✔ Rich in Protein – Barilla Protein+ Pasta has up to 10g of protein per serving, rendering it ideal for a post-exercise meal.
✔ Robust & Delectable – A slowly simmered ragù crafted with succulent sausage, umami-rich mushrooms, and fragrant herbs.
✔ Effortless & Rapid – Prepared in less than 45 minutes, requiring minimal preparation and cooking time.
✔ Ideal for Meal Preparation – The sauce improves in flavor the next day and freezes effectively.
Components
For the Pasta: – 12 oz Barilla Protein+ Pasta penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti
- Sodium chloride (for boiling aqueous solution)
For the Sausage & Mushroom Ragù: – 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings eliminated)
- 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or baby bella), cut – 1 small onion, finely diced – 3 cloves garlic, minced
- One can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup of red wine Optional, increases taste.
- ½ cup of beef or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Optional, for enhancement.
- Salt and black pepper, adjusted to preference
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
For Garnish: – Fresh basil or parsley – Grated Parmesan cheese
Sequential Guidelines
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Heat a substantial saucepan of salted water until it reaches a boil.
- Prepare Barilla Protein+ Pasta in accordance with the package directions (typically 8-10 minutes for al dente texture).
- Retain ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Incorporate onions and sauté until tender (3-4 minutes).
Incorporate the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Step 3: Sauté the Sausage
- Incorporate the Italian sausage, disaggregating it with a spoon.
- Sauté until browned and thoroughly cooked (6-8 minutes).
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
9. Incorporate the mushrooms and sauté until they exude their moisture and attain a golden brown hue (5 minutes).
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- Add red wine (if applicable) and boil for 2-3 minutes to deglaze the pan.
Incorporate the tomato paste and sauté for a further 1-2 minutes. - Incorporate crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring intermittently.
Step 6: Integrate and Present
- If the sauce is excessively thick, incorporate a small amount of reserved pasta water.
- Incorporate the prepared Barilla Protein+ Pasta into the sauce and blend thoroughly.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley.
Nutritional Advantages of Barilla Protein+ Pasta
| Nutrient | Per 2 oz Serving || | Calories | 190 kcal | | Protein | 10g | | Fiber | 4g | | Carbs | 39g | | Fats | 1g |
Key Benefits: ✅ More Protein – Compared to traditional pasta, it delivers more plant-based protein. ✅ More Fiber – Keeps you satisfied for longer. ✅ Lower Glycemic Index – Better for blood sugar regulation. ✅ Great for a Balanced Diet – Suitable for active lifestyles.
Guidelines for an Optimal Barilla Protein+ Pasta Recipe
✔ Use High-Quality Sausage – Opt for Italian sausage with fennel for added depth of flavor.
✔ Avoid Overcooking the Pasta – Overcooking Barilla Protein+ Pasta, which is composed of legumes and whole grains, might result in a mushy texture. Stick to al dente.
✔ Let the Sauce Simmer – The longer the sauce simmer, the richer it gets. If time allows, let it simmer for up to an hour.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly – Make a double batch of the sauce and freeze it for convenient weeknight meals.
Recommendations for Serving
🍝 Accompanied with Garlic Bread – A crunchy side of garlic bread enhances the meal’s satisfaction. 🥗 Accompanied by a Fresh Salad – Pair with a basic arugula or Caesar salad for a well-rounded dish.
🍲 Over Zucchini Noodles – Substitute pasta with zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb alternative. 🧀 Topped with Ricotta – Incorporate a dollop of ricotta cheese for a rich, creamy enhancement.
Common Inquiries (CIs)
1. Is Barilla Protein+ Pasta Gluten-Free?
No, it contains durum wheat semolina, hence it is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free alternative, consider Barilla Chickpea or Lentil Pasta.
2. Is it Possible to Adapt This Recipe to be Vegetarian?
Affirmative! Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or lentils, and replace beef broth with vegetable broth.
3. Duration of Storage for This Dish – Refrigerator:
Preserve in an airtight container for 4 days. – Freezer: Freeze the ragù for a maximum of 3 months.
4. May I Utilize Alternative Pasta Shapes?
Indeed! Penne, rotini, spaghetti, or rigatoni are compatible with this sauce.
5. What If I Lack Red Wine?
Substitute it with additional broth or a dash of balsamic vinegar for enhanced taste complexity.
Concluding Reflections
Barilla Protein+ Pasta is an excellent option for individuals seeking to enhance their protein consumption while enjoying pasta. When combined with a robust sausage and mushroom ragù, it results in a nutritious, tasty, and gratifying dinner that aligns with any balanced diet.
Experiment with this recipe and inform me of the results! Enjoy your meal! 🍝✨
