I wanted a protein-filled lunch for three reasons today.
- I had my first spinning class today! (Which, by the way, kicked my booty. I will be going back, though!)
- I did an intense weights workout this morning.
- I’m having a late dinner tonight with Kelley and Amanda at the Melting Pot, and need something to hold me over until then, with only a small afternoon snack.
This meal is quick, easy, and nutritious. With a side of fruit or veggies, you’ll have a balanced meal!
As I juggle classes, training, SWE, blogging, wedding planning, and enjoying my last semester in Madison, I need some quick, easy, and nutritious meals. This one definitely fits the bill. With a side of fruit or veggies, it makes a nice, balanced meal. It will definitely be making regularly appearances on my menu throughout the semester.
I used jarred marinara sauce for time-saving purposes. Specifically, I used the 365 brand from Whole Foods. Use whatever sauce you have on hand, or some home-made marinara if you aren’t rushing off to class like I was!
Protein-Pumped Pasta
3/4 c. pinto beans, cooked and drained (canned works too!)
1 c. whole wheat pasta
1/4 c. peanut butter
2 tsp. flax seeds
1/2 c. marinara sauce
Boil pasta according to package directions.
While the pasta cooks, whisk together the peanut butter, flax seeds, and marinara sauce until well-mixed. The sauce will take on a burnt-orange color.
Mix the pasta and beans together in a bowl, and top with the sauce.
Makes 2 servings.
Nutritional Information for 1 serving ( 1/2 the recipe)
What is your ‘go-to’ meal?
{ 22 comments… read them below or add one }
i love the addition of peanut butter in the pasta. i might have to be adventerous & try it!
It is SO good! I was afraid the peanut butter + marinara would be a weird combination, but it just adds this creamy, richer flavor to the sauce.
What yummy pasta!! I think spinning is my favorite work out ever
I can’t wait to go back and show that spin bike who’s boss. It almost defeated me today!
Does PB and marinara really taste okay together?
YES! I thought it would be weird, but the peanut butter taste is really subtle. The sauce is creamier and richer… if you blind-tasted it, I don’t think you’d guess it had PB in it!
This looks so good… and interesting. I would have never thought to add PB with marinara sauce. What does it taste like?
NOT like peanut butter!
Tastes smoother and richer than normal PB 
have fun at spinnnnnn!
I already went this morning, and it kicked my butt! I’ll be back, though, and do better next time
Peanut butter in it!?! YUM!!
That looks delicious! I keep reading about the nut butter and marinara combo; it’s about time to just make it already
PB? That’s nuts (literally)! Sorry, couldn’t help myself.
My go-to meal is mac and cheese. Nutritionally deficient, but delicious!
I like mixing cottage cheese with marinara sauce! I think it tastes like lasagna and really pumps up the protein!
I LOVE SPINNING! Sadly, the ones here at the Cornell gym are not particularly exhilarating… I should become a spin instructor!
I’ve NEVER heard of adding PB to pasta sauce. but if you say it’s good maybe I’ll test it out!
Peanut butter in pasta? I like pb in anything so I might have to check this out
Aren’t spinning classes GREAT? I took my first one about a month ago and it was so hard for me! It was great though and I love switching up my cardio workouts!
I am going to give spinning a go tomorrow! I think it will be good for my marathon training. I have never had peanut butter in a marinara sauce but will have to try that. My go to’s are veggie chili or curry. I totally crave them!
that recipe sounds delicious!! yay for your first spinning class
excited for our little meet up!
Interesting addition of the peanut butter! I bet that’s delicous
And I have some pasta just sitting around waiting to be used. 
Yay for spin!! I’m a big fan of that class too! Great workout. I’m also a big fan of peanut butter in anything especially pasta or noodles. Usually I use it in Asian-style noodles, but I’ve never tried marinara, yum! My go-to meal is either yogurt or baked pasta with veggies, can’t go wrong with those! Thanks for stopping by my new site
What a fun And unique way to add protein and ‘good’ fats to a meal! I will have to try this out
My go-to meal is a fritata with sauteed veggies, or a big bowl of oats topped with fruit.