If you’re like most people, you probably love pasta. It’s a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, if you’re getting a bit bored of the same old ordinary pasta you always use, or you want to try something healthier with fewer carbs, there are plenty of exciting alternatives available. In this post, I will share four of the best substitutes for pasta. So whether you’re looking for something new to add to your menu or you’re just curious about what else is out there, read on for some great suggestions!
Orzo
What do you get if you cross rice and pasta? Orzo! If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative then this isn’t the best option because it’s made with the same dough as ordinary pasta. However, Orzo is excellent if you want to use pasta in innovative ways. It’s the same dough as pasta but it is in the shape of small grains. It’s great for salads and soups, and it can also be used in place of rice in stir-fries if you like. Check out this greek orzo salad recipe, for example. Introducing orzo into your repertoire is a great way to change the way that you use pasta and keep things more interesting.
Rice Noodles
If you’re looking for a truly healthy alternative to pasta then rice noodles are the way to go. They’re made from rice flour and water, so they’re gluten-free, low in calories, and have a very low glycemic index. This means that they won’t cause spikes in your blood sugar levels like some other carbs can. Rice noodles are perfect for stir-fries, soups, and salads. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of whatever they’re cooked with, making them a versatile and delicious option. They pair perfectly with these delicious Asian Turkey Meatballs.
Spaghetti Squash
Spaghetti squash is a winter squash, much like a pumpkin or acorn squash, but its meat has the consistency of — you guessed it — spaghetti. Thus, its name. You can bake it, roast it, cook it in a slow cooker or instapot, and then serve it with pasta sauce. It is low-calorie and a good source of fiber. It is cholesterol-free, gluten-free, low in saturated fat and sodium, fat-free, and a good source of vitamins C, several B vitamins, manganese, and potassium. Give it try!
Spiralized Vegetables
Want to make some spaghetti but want to avoid the carbs? Spiralized vegetables are the perfect solution. You can use a spiralizer to turn all sorts of vegetables into noodles, from zucchini to sweet potatoes. Spiralized veggies make a great base for all your favorite pasta sauces, and they’re also delicious when stir-fried with some protein. If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious alternative to pasta, give spiralized veggies a try.
There are plenty of exciting alternatives to pasta available, so if you’re looking for something new to try then be sure to check out some of the options listed above. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or just want to change things up a bit, there’s sure to be an alternative that suits your needs.
