Pasta Primavera for Phase 1 of the Fast Metabolism Diet

I made this pasta for dinner for Phase 1, Meatless Monday.  It was soooooo good that I cannot wait to share it with you.  This is a complete one pot meal, minus the pot used to cook the pasta.  You could add a salad if you want but I didn't think it was necessary.  This meal contained the protein, veggies and grains required for a Phase 1 Dinner and was very filling.  You can enjoy a smaller serving with a piece of fruit the next day for lunch.

I came in after a busy day of working on the new, smaller farm.  For being smaller it sure is a lot of work right now but I know that as we get settled in things will be easier than before.  We had been outside working since 10 am.  When we came in at 5 pm, I showered first and then prepared dinner while Frank showered.  Dinner was on the table by 6 pm.

I was glad that I could make a good FMD dinner for us because when we are busy like that I forget to stop and eat my required snacks which I know is not good for the metabolism.

Phase 1 Pasta Primavera

1/2 lb brown rice ziti, cooked per package directions

1 small onion, diced

4 oz. mushrooms, sliced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 t. dried Italian herbs

sea salt and freshly ground pepper

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices

1 (15 oz) can cannelini beans, drained and rinsed

2 c. spinach leaves, packed

Place onion, mushrooms, garlic and tomatoes with their juices in a large skillet over med high heat. Bring to a boil and let cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the Italian herbs, salt and pepper.  Add the cannelini beans, reduce the heat to low and simmer until beans are heated through, about 5 minutes.  Add the spinach and allow to wilt, stirring to combine.  Stir in the pasta. Simmer, stirring occasionally until heated through, 5 to 10 minutes longer.  Print Recipe