Easy and Healthy Pasta Recipes Perfect for Lunch

By Marnie Soman Schwartz
May 17, 2019
So long, sad desk lunch. Skip the frozen lasagna or same ol’ salad and pack one of these delicious and nutritious healthy pasta recipes.
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Asparagus and Arugula Pasta Salad

Credit: Gimme Some Oven

A healthy pasta recipe is the perfect clean-out-the-fridge dish. This version uses spring produce, but you can adapt it with whatever you have on hand. (Good news! We have even more Italian meal ideas that won't put you in a food coma.)

Get the recipe:  Asparagus and Arugula Pasta Salad

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Israeli Pasta Salad

Credit: The View From Great Island

This veggie-packed pasta salad actually tastes better after a day or two in the fridge. So if you make a big batch on the weekend, you'll have delicious healthy lunches for days. Talk about Mediterranean diet meal planning, made easy!

Get the recipe: Israeli Pasta Salad

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Creamy White Bean Pesto Pasta

Credit: Natural Girl Modern World

The vegan sauce on this creamy pesto pasta gets a luscious texture—as well as extra hits of fiber and protein—from beans. Add pesto and you've got a meal that's filling and super flavorful. (Related: This Vegan Pad Thai is Our Latest Dinner Obsession)

Get the recipe: Creamy White Bean Pesto Pasta

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Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad

Credit: Averie Cooks

Tons of bright, colorful veggies make this pasta salad healthy and Instagram-worthy. And since it tastes great warm or cold, you can make it for a party and then pack the leftovers for lunch all week. (Related: Surprising Sauces That Take Pasta to the Next Level)

Get the recipe: Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad

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Crazy Good Peanut Noodles

Credit: Kelley & Cricket

You'd never guess that these indulgent-looking noodles are actually Paleo. And since the healthy pasta recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, it's perfect for a quick and easy lunch.

Get the recipe: Crazy Good Peanut Noodles

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Garlic Chili Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower

Credit: Minimalist Baker

With just 10 ingredients (and only 30 minutes of prep/cook time) this spicy, vegan cauliflower dish will be your new go-to. Just zap it in the microwave to reheat it at work.

Get the recipe: Garlic Chili Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower 

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Pasta Salad with Strawberries, Zucchini, and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Credit: Food Faith Fitness

This fruit-and-veggie filled healthy pasta recipe is made with noodles that are actually made from tofu (they're one of the 10 gluten-free alternatives to standard noodles). An entire package has just 20 calories, so you can add lots of delicious toppings and still keep the meal low-cal.

Get the recipe:  Pasta Salad with Strawberries, Zucchini, and Balsamic Vinaigrette

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Sweet and Sour Thai Carrot And Cucumber Noodle Salad

Credit: Peas & Crayons

Spiralized vegetables tossed in a sweet and sour dressing take the place of pasta in this dish, but it's just as satisfying as a bowl of noodles. Now, check out these 7 Creative Combinations for Spiralized Vegetables.

Get the recipe: Carrot and Cucumber Noodle Salad

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By Marnie Soman Schwartz