Discover the delicious world of black rice pasta with this vibrant vegan recipe that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. Black rice, often known as forbidden rice, is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and a subtle nuttiness that perfectly complements pasta dishes.
Combined with fresh vegetables and a simple yet flavorful sauce, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a gluten-free, plant-based meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more wholesome meals to your weekly rotation, this black rice pasta recipe is perfect. Its striking color makes it an appealing centerpiece on your plate, while the wholesome ingredients ensure you’re nourishing your body with every bite.
Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide to create a delicious vegan dinner that’s bound to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This black rice pasta recipe is a celebration of health, flavor, and simplicity. Unlike traditional pasta, black rice pasta offers a unique texture and a nutrient boost, making it a fantastic alternative for those seeking gluten-free options.
It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is incredibly versatile. Plus, it’s entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and anyone wanting to eat more plant-forward meals.
The rich, earthy notes of black rice combined with fresh veggies and a light sauce create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
You’ll also appreciate how easy it is to customize this recipe to suit your taste buds or what’s in your pantry. From adding your favorite herbs to swapping veggies, this pasta recipe is a canvas for your creativity.
Ingredients
- 200g black rice pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Serving bowls or plates
Instructions
- Cook the black rice pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the black rice pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain and set aside: Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced red onion, sautéing for 3-4 minutes or until fragrant and softened.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the red bell pepper and cook for another 4-5 minutes until slightly tender. Then add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Incorporate spinach and olives: Add the baby spinach and sliced black olives. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Season with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss pasta with veggies: Add the cooked black rice pasta to the skillet. Drizzle with lemon juice and gently toss everything together to combine and warm through.
- Serve and garnish: Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Tips & Variations
For perfectly cooked black rice pasta, keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking, as it can become mushy quickly.
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonal availability or your preference. Zucchini ribbons, asparagus, or mushrooms make excellent additions or substitutions.
If you want to add some protein, consider tossing in cooked chickpeas or your favorite vegan sausage.
For a creamy twist, try pairing this pasta with a vegan Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe – it’s a rich, tangy match that complements the earthy black rice beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 |
Protein | 8g |
Carbohydrates | 62g |
Fiber | 7g |
Fat | 7g |
Saturated Fat | 1g |
Sodium | 220mg |
Iron | 15% DV |
Vitamin A | 40% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This black rice pasta is best enjoyed warm, paired with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light vegan soup such as a crisp cucumber or tomato-based broth.
To elevate your dining experience, add a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling water infused with lemon and mint. If you’re interested in vegan desserts to follow this meal, check out the delightful Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for a sweet, creamy treat.
Conclusion
Embracing black rice pasta in your vegan cooking repertoire opens up a world of nutritious and delicious possibilities. This recipe highlights how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both visually stunning and deeply satisfying.
Its balance of textures and flavors ensures that each bite is a delight, whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests.
By using wholesome ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can enjoy a healthy, gluten-free meal without sacrificing taste or convenience. Don’t forget to explore other flavorful vegan dishes like our Collard Green Casserole Recipes to keep your plant-based menu exciting and diverse.
Enjoy your culinary journey with this black rice pasta recipe and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients to make it truly your own!
📖 Recipe Card: Black Rice Pasta Recipe Vegan
Description: A nutritious and flavorful vegan pasta dish made with black rice pasta and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz black rice pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Cook black rice pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain pasta and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add cherry tomatoes and red bell pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss to combine.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Remove from heat and stir in nutritional yeast and fresh basil.
- Serve topped with toasted pine nuts if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 55 g
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