Pasta is a classic dish. Let’s be honest, there aren’t many people who don’t love it. In fact, in the US, research suggests that more than half of Americans eat it on a regular basis. It’s comforting, it’s filling, and it can be incredibly nutritious if you pair it with the right ingredients.

It’s already a good source of carbohydrates, but for added essential vitamins and minerals, load it up with your favorite vegetables. And if you want extra plant protein (good news: pasta already contains around 5 to 8 grams of protein per cup!), then look no further than beans, nuts, and seeds, like cashews, pistachios, white beans, and pumpkin seeds. Plus, not only do these ingredients add extra protein, they also improve flavor and texture.

Most people need to eat two portions of protein—a vital nutrient that helps to build and repair muscles, gives us energy, and benefits our bone health—every day, notes the British Heart Foundation.

How to Make Butter Chicken—Without the Chicken or the Butter

And while meat has long been regarded as a protein powerhouse, you don’t need it to meet your daily requirement. “You might think meat is the best way to get [protein], but there’s growing evidence that swapping a diet rich in animal protein (such as meat and dairy) for one high in pulses, nuts, and grains could help you live longer,” the British Heart Foundation explains. 

In addition to these whole-food, plant-based ingredients, tofu and tempeh also make a great addition to any meal for an added protein boost. Because pasta is simple, versatile, and enjoyed by most people (even some of the fussiest kids around love pasta), it’s a great dish to dress up with a little extra protein. 

To demonstrate just how straightforward it is to add more protein to this much-loved Italian dish, we’ve gathered 10 delicious recipe ideas below.

Pistachios are a great source of protein. In fact, 100 grams of these nuts contain around 20 grams of the nutrient. Blend them with cooked onions, garlic, milk, and nutritional yeast to create a creamy, delicious, addictive pasta recipe—it’s quick, easy, and perfect for a nutritious midweek meal.
Get the recipe

Jackie Sobon

Chickpeas are packed with protein, and they’re also a good source of dietary fiber, iron, and magnesium. And they’re tasty, too. Get the best out of this versatile legume by combining them with lemon juice, dried rosemary, and garlic for a flavorful, protein-packed dinner.
Get the recipe

Sam Turnbull

Beans are one of the best plant-based sources of protein. This particular recipe—which features a creamy, aromatic white sauce, as well as sun-dried tomatoes and spinach—calls for white beans (also called navy beans), but you can add any variety you like. Cannellini beans, for example, would also work well.
Get the recipe

Dreena Burton

Seeds are another nutritious, plant-based ingredient, and pumpkin seeds in particular are packed with protein: 100 grams contains around 19 grams of protein. Plus, they also make a great base for a nut-free, herby pesto recipe.
Get the recipe

Danielle Keith

Without a doubt, pumpkin brings delicious flavor and nutritional value to this pasta recipe, but without the seeds, the fruit is not the best source of protein. That’s why this dish also features cashew cream. Cashews are one of the best ways to add protein to pasta, because when blended, they form a creamy, velvety, delicious sauce to rival dairy.
Get the recipe

Francesca Bonadonna

Again, cashew cream is the star of this buttery, plant-based pasta recipe, which also features a tangy, zesty flavor, thanks to the addition of lemon juice. For serving, a generous scattering of vegan parmesan is a must. To boost the protein content more, serve with tofu, tempeh, or even vegan meat.
Get the recipe

Amy Angelo

Adding tempeh to your pasta is a great way to add protein. Per 100 grams, tempeh, which is made from fermented soybeans, has around 19 grams of protein. The marinade recipe also works with Brussels sprouts for a nutritious side. 
Get the recipe

Brianna Claxton

For a super comforting, filling, and nourishing pasta recipe, look no further than these ricotta stuffed shells. The vodka sauce is rich and creamy while the sausages are protein-packed. You can choose any store-bought vegan sausages you like or even make your own from ingredients like tempeh or tofu if you have the time and desire.
Get the recipe

So Vegan

When it comes to ravioli, the choices for filling are endless. But we think this herby cashew cheese recipe is hard to beat. Not only is it a good source of protein, but it’s also delicious, it looks great, and it’s surprisingly easy to make, too.
Get the recipe

Alex Shytsman

Vegan lobster mac and cheese is the perfect combination of luxury and comfort. Instead of real shellfish, opt for dried lobster mushrooms (yes, this is a real thing!), and combine with a creamy, garlicky, protein-packed cashew sauce for a deliciously nourishing meal. This dish suits most occasions, but we’d say it’s a great one to whip up on date night, especially.
Get the recipe