High Protein Vegan Pasta with Tomato Sauce
If you’re craving a vegan pasta recipe that’s easy, protein-packed, and loaded with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This high protein vegan pasta combines a rich, creamy tomato sauce with your favorite high protein pasta (which should be Kaizen) for a dinner that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
With a base of San Marzano tomatoes, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, and a dash of Italian herbs, this dish is a great way to enjoy a comforting bowl of pasta while sticking to your vegan diet and upping your protein intake.
Whether you’re whipping this up for the whole family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will be your new go-to for an easy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrients. Let’s dive in!
About This Vegan High Protein Pasta
This isn’t your average pasta dish—it’s a plant-based meal with bold, savory flavors and a velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly. The secret? Using simple ingredients like nutritional yeast, tomato paste, and San Marzano tomatoes to create a sauce that’s naturally rich and loaded with umami.
It’s also a great source of protein, thanks to high protein pasta from Kaizen. The best part? This pasta is totally customizable—add your favorite veggies like bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, or even some sautéed mushrooms for an extra nutrient boost.
This vegan pasta recipe is ideal for any night of the week, whether you’re meal prepping for those busy nights or making dinner for the whole family. Plus, it pairs perfectly with low-carb sides like roasted broccoli or a crisp salad.
Why You’ll Love It
- A vegan pasta recipe that comes together in less than 30 minutes—what’s not to love?
- Thanks to high protein pasta, you’re getting plenty of grams of plant-based protein in every bite.
- Made with pantry staples like canned tomatoes, nutritional yeast, and Italian herbs—no fancy stuff here.
- Add veggies, tweak the spices, or top it with your favorite fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
- Make the sauce ahead of time, store it in an airtight container, and enjoy a delicious, high-protein dinner in minutes.
Ingredients
(Note: These are the recipe’s starring ingredients, but you can find all the ingredients in the recipe card below!)
- High Protein Pasta: The star of the show! I used Kaizen pasta, my low-carb and high-protein pasta made with lupini beans.
- San Marzano Tomatoes: These tomatoes are sweet, tangy, and perfect for a creamy pasta sauce. They’re canned, and you’ll find them at most local stores or specialty markets.
- Nutritional Yeast: Adds that cheesy, umami-rich flavor to the sauce, making it a must-have for this vegan pasta sauce. Plus, it’s loaded with essential amino acids for an extra protein boost.
- Tomato Paste: A small addition that brings big flavor, this thickens the sauce and makes it rich and hearty.
- Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing onions and creating the base of this vegan pasta recipe. It’s the key to a silky-smooth sauce.
- Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme gives this dish that classic Italian flavor we all love.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
While this dish is perfect as is, you could make it your own with the following swaps and additions:
Swaps
- Nutritional Yeast: Use a dollop of cashew cream or a vegan yogurt for a nutty, creamy alternative.
- Olive Oil: Replace with avocado oil for a slightly lighter flavor.
Additions
- Extra Protein: Blend silken tofu into the sauce for even more protein and a creamy texture.
- Veggies: Add roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed bell peppers, or mushrooms for a nutrient-packed meal.
- Herbs and Spices: Toss in red pepper flakes for a little heat, or finish with fresh basil and parsley for added flavor and brightness.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon at the end enhances the sauce’s richness and balances the flavors.
How to Make High Protein Vegan Pasta
The steps are simple, and I’m outlining them below, but be sure to scroll to the bottom of the page to view the full, printable recipe card.
Step 1 – Sauté the Aromatics
In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its aroma.
Step 2 – Create the Sauce
Add canned San Marzano tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, monkfruit sweetener, Italian herbs, and nutritional yeast. Stir everything together and let it simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes.
Step 3 – Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook your high protein pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta water for the sauce if needed.
Step 4 – Combine and Serve
Serve the pasta topped with a generous spoonful of the tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and add a sprinkle of pine nuts or red pepper flakes if you’re feeling fancy.
Step 5 – Enjoy
Plate up and enjoy! Pair with a side of roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a complete plant-based meal.
What to Serve with this High Protein Pasta Dish
This recipe is one for the books on its own, but you could add some extra good to your plate with any of these options:
FAQs
Yes! Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Blend in a little silken tofu, cashew cream, or even a small amount of coconut milk for a velvety finish.
Absolutely! Toss in some cooked red lentils or top the dish with hemp seeds or toasted sunflower seeds for added crunch and grams of protein.
Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. Heat the pasta separately to avoid it getting mushy.
Sautéed spinach, roasted Brussels sprouts, or zucchini noodles make great low-carb pairings for this dish.
How to Store
Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For meal prep, keep the pasta and sauce separate to maintain the best texture. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
Recommended Products
- Calphalon Stainless Steel Pan Set
- Kaizen Pasta – Code SHREDHAPPENS saves 20% on any purchase
- Wildone Mixing Bowls
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High Protein Vegan Pasta
This high protein vegan pasta combines creamy tomato sauce with your favorite high protein pasta for a dinner that’s nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped small
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 28 oz. canned San Marzano tomatoes, diced (with juices)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoons granulated monk fruit sweetener
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 8 ounces Kaizen pasta, any variety
- fresh basil or parsley, add to taste
Instructions
- Set a large saucepan over medium heat and warm the olive oil. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
- Add the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, monkfruit sweetener, Italian seasoning and nutritional yeast. Stir and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the Kaizen pasta and cook according to package instructions. Strain the water.
- Serve the pasta with a large spoonful of the sauce, topped with basil or parsley.
Notes
Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to four days.
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