Are you looking for a delicious way to stick to your diet? Look no further! Pasta is a staple in many cuisines, but it can be hard to make it fit into a healthy eating plan. However, with a few simple swaps and creative twists, you can enjoy your favorite pasta dishes while still staying on track with Weight Watchers. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering pasta recipes that are not only tasty but also low in points.
From classic spaghetti to more adventurous options like zucchini noodles and lentil bolognese, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all designed to be healthy and nutritious, so you can indulge without feeling guilty. Whether you’re a seasoned Weight Watcher or just starting out on your weight loss journey, these pasta dishes are sure to become a staple in your diet.
So go ahead, get creative with your pasta, and start enjoying the flavors and textures that you love while still staying within your daily point allowance.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This bright and flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon garlic sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet. Reduce heat to medium. Pour in lemon juice and stir to combine with remaining garlic and oil.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to create a creamy sauce.
6. Combine cooked shrimp and pasta. Toss to coat with the lemon garlic sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Turkey Meatballs
A classic Italian-American dish gets a leaner twist with turkey meatballs and whole wheat spaghetti. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup whole wheat spaghetti
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, and garlic in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large skillet, combine crushed tomatoes and cooked turkey meatballs. Simmer for 10-12 minutes.
7. Serve spaghetti topped with the turkey meatball sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Transform your pasta game with this refreshing summer recipe featuring zucchini noodles and a vibrant pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your spiralizer or mandoline to create zucchini noodles.
2. Cook the zucchini noodles in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly tender.
3. In a small bowl, combine pesto and salt to taste.
4. Add the pesto mixture to the cooked zucchini noodles and stir until well combined.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whole Wheat Pasta Primavera
This classic pasta dish gets a nutritious boost with whole wheat spaghetti and an explosion of colorful spring vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whole wheat spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes or until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the mixed spring vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until the liquid is almost completely reduced.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti, vegetable mixture, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the nutty flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a tender pasta shell. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, these stuffed shells are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Spaghetti
This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and al dente spaghetti is a match made in heaven. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
Transform classic chicken alfredo into a healthier, veggie-packed meal by substituting spaghetti squash for traditional pasta. This recipe is quick, easy, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked spaghetti squash (about 1 medium)
– 1/4 cup butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the creamy sauce. Toss to combine.
7. Serve chicken and sauce over roasted spaghetti squash, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables
A refreshing summer salad that combines tender grilled vegetables with al dente pasta and a hint of tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bow-tie)
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar.
5. Add grilled vegetables, cooked pasta, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Turkey Sausage Pasta
A hearty and satisfying pasta dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring turkey sausage, pasta, and vegetables all cooked in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 Turkey Sausages (cooked and sliced)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked pasta, Diced Tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried basil to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Baked Ziti with Lean Ground Turkey
This classic Italian-American dish gets a healthy twist by using lean ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese, without sacrificing flavor. This comforting casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz ziti pasta
– 1 cup shredded reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce; bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked ziti, turkey mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a large bowl.
7. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful sauce made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and place the roasted peppers in a blender or food processor with garlic, olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine the roasted red pepper sauce with cooked pasta and toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy and tangy twist on the classic macaroni and cheese recipe. The addition of Greek yogurt adds a rich and velvety texture that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Greek yogurt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add butter and whisk until melted.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil Bolognese with Whole Wheat Penne
This recipe combines the rich flavors of a classic bolognese sauce with the comfort of whole wheat penne and nutritious lentils. The result is a satisfying, plant-based meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup whole wheat penne pasta
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (for non-vegans)
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little oil until tender.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Cook the whole wheat penne according to package instructions. Drain and combine with the lentils and sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory dish that combines the flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle flour over the garlic mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and garlic-parmesan sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Light Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and light cream to create a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup light cream
– 1 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in light cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the mushroom sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Cauliflower Pasta Bake
A comforting and flavorful pasta bake that combines the best of spring’s seasons – broccoli and cauliflower! This recipe is a perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add broccoli and cauliflower; cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, cheese, basil, salt, and pepper in a baking dish.
6. Pour heavy cream on top and toss gently.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Pesto Pasta
Transform your pasta dish with the creamy goodness of avocado pesto! This recipe is a twist on traditional pesto, using ripe avocados to add a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado flesh, basil leaves, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Toss cooked spaghetti with the avocado pesto sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, topped with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Peas
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of turkey bacon with the sweetness of peas and the comfort of pasta for a satisfying meal. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a flavorful dinner ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 6 slices of turkey bacon, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add minced garlic and frozen peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Add chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with turkey bacon, peas, and garlic mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta with Olives and Feta
A flavorful and refreshing pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the tanginess of feta cheese. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine)
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add Kalamata olives and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Toss cooked pasta with olive mixture, feta cheese, and parsley.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon zest (if desired).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skinny Fettuccine Carbonara
Get ready to experience the rich flavors of carbonara, minus the extra calories! This recipe uses whole wheat fettuccine and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, making it a healthier take on this beloved pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whole wheat fettuccine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and black pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cooked fettuccine and toss to combine with the oil.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in healthy eating with these 20 delicious Weight Watchers pasta recipes! From classic spaghetti dishes to creative twists on traditional favorites, this collection offers something for everyone. Enjoy lemon garlic shrimp pasta, turkey meatball spaghetti, zucchini noodles with pesto, and many more mouth-watering options. With a focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh vegetables, these recipes are not only tasty but also nutritious. Whether you’re looking to reduce calories or simply upgrade your meal routine, this article has got you covered.