This is a post sponsored by Explore Cuisine, all opinions are my own.
I ran my first marathon. Yes, folks. On Sunday, November 3, 2019, I ran 26.2 miles through the five boroughs of New York City (Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan). The actual marathon felt like a victory lap celebrating over 4 months of training. Spoiler alert: my diet played a major role in my preparation.
BEAN & LENTIL PASTAS WERE A LIFESAVER!
During my training I focused on my nutrition. I engaged in endless conversations with marathoners in my run crew, read numerous articles and watched a wide range of videos about what elite marathoners eat. I learned that no two professional marathoners had the same diet but they all acknowledged the importance of having a diet that aligned with their goals. One of the more important nutrients for training is protein. Our bodies need it to build and repair muscle. Protein is also a very satiating macronutrient that will keep you full longer compared to simple carbohydrates.
I tried to ensure that all my meals contained fiber and protein. And as my training demanded more time, it was great having quick and easy meals that aligned with what I was trying to accomplish. The Explore Cuisine Pastas were a lifesaver for me! Their pastas are tasty and easy to prepare. In addition, they met my protein and fiber needs. If I were crunched for time I could whip up a bowl of Explore Cuisine Pasta and add a simple red sauce and boom! A satisfying meal with protein and fiber in under 15 minutes.
All Explore Cuisine’s products are organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan. In this recipe I’m using the red lentil penne to show you how easy it is to make a quick wholesome meal.
ABOUT THIS ARRABBIATA
This dish originates from the Lazio region of Rome and uses simple ingredients. The word arrabbiata means “angry” and refers to the spiciness of red sauce. The arrabbiata sauce is usually served with penne but I’ve also tried mine with the Explore Cuisine Chickpea Fusilli and Black Bean Spaghetti.
Try this recipe and let me know what you think.
WIN A TRIP TO ITALY
Until November 30, 2019 Explore Cuisine is running a challenge where the grand-prize will be selected to win a trip for two to explore Italy. Yes, folks. A trip to Italy. There will also be monthly winners who will receive prizes featuring kitchen gadgets and Explore Cuisine products. To enter the challenge all you have to do is share your Italian recipes using the #PastaPioneerChallenge. Check out the @explorecuisine IG page or visit www.explorecuisine.com for more details.
Prep Time: 5 mins . Cook Time: 20 mins . Yield: 4 Servings
INGREDIENTS
1 Box Explore Cuisine Red Lentil Penne
6 Cloves Garlic, minced
3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 28-Oz Can Crushed Tomatoes
2 to 4 Tsp Red Pepper Flakes
1/2 Bunch Parsley, chopped
Handful of Fresh Basil, chopped
Salt and Black Pepper to taste
METHOD
1. Cook Explore Cuisine Red Lentil Penne according to directions on box.
2. In a large skillet heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and pepper flakes; cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until garlic is golden and fragrant. Lower temperature if necessary so as to not burn the garlic.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, salt and black pepper. Simmer on medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. During the last 2 to 3 minutes stir in chopped parsley and basil.
4. Add the cooked pasta to sauce and toss.
5. Garnish with remaining basil and parsley.
