When it comes to weight loss, it is not necessary to cut all 'tasty' foods from your diet and start eating all things bland that you would never eat happily. Even if you do this and lose weight, it won't be a surprise if you end up gaining all that weight back once you stop following this rigid diet. So, what's the solution? The answer lies in following a healthy and balanced diet that helps you achieve and maintain calorie deficit and healthy weight in the long run. This can be achieved by trying delicious homemade meals and snacks using nutritious ingredients that are low in calories.
It is a win-win situation without any shortcuts - you eat a meal that is healthy for your body, and tasty for your tastebud. Plus, you follow a disciplined exercise routine and soon you will reach your healthy body weight. Sounds great, right? If the answer is yes, here is a yummy and tasty pasta recipe for you, shared by Nutritionist Saloni (@nutritionistsaloni) on her Instagram handle. Prepared using pumpkin, the pasta comes with a creamy sauce and is full of yummy veggies.
Can We Eat Pasta On A Weight-Loss Diet?
According to a 2020 meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Nutrition, pasta may help you eat a higher-quality diet as long as you don't overdo the portions. Pasta also has a lower glycemic index and glycemic load than other carbohydrates like white bread and sugary soft drinks, according to a 2021 study in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health.
What Makes This Pasta Recipe Weight-Loss-Friendly?
This pasta recipe is prepared using healthy ingredients like pumpkin and the creamy sauce is achieved using paneer and coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The pasta also includes lots of fibre and nutrient-rich veggies. Remember to follow portion control.
Health Benefits Of Pumpkin
Pumpkin is an excellent source of antioxidants. According to nutritionist Rupali Datta, the bright yellow /orange colour of pumpkin is an indication that this is rich in an important antioxidant B - carotene or beta-carotene. "In our body, this pro-vitamin is converted to vitamin A, which performs several essential functions. Beta carotene has been linked to reducing the risks of certain cancers, delaying ageing and protecting against heart diseases."
Also Read: How To Make Healthy Ghiya Salad For Weight Loss In Under 15 Minutes
Let's learn how to make this healthy and tasty pumpkin pasta recipe.
How To Make Pumpkin Pasta For Weight Loss Diet | Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe
Take a pan and add chopped pieces of pumpkin, garlic, salt and water. Cook for 10-15 minutes till the pumpkin pieces are tender. Now in the same pan, add coconut milk, paneer, oregano, chilli flakes and black pepper. Blend this mix to make a creamy paste.
Also Read: Weight Loss: Nutritionist Shares High Protein, High Fibre Tikkis You Can Enjoy Guilt-Free
In another pan, saute your favourite veggies like thinly chopped onion, capsicum, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sprinkle some peri peri masala. Now add your pumpkin-paneer paste and cook everything together. Add the boiled pasta, mix well and enjoy.
Looking for more easy and tasty pasta recipes? Try the one-pot pasta recipe here.