Pasta can be a healthy inclusion in a balanced diet. Pasta itself won’t contribute to an unhealthy meal, but the sauces we choose to make can if we don’t make good choices. Sauces that are heavy with heavy cream are not good for those on low-fat diets. Consider using healthier olive oils and blending them with different flavors and spice mixes for an enticing taste of flavors from around the world.

Personally, I only eat gluten free pasta and try to limit this to once a week. I don’t follow a low-fat diet because I believe that good fats are really beneficial in helping you lose weight and maintain a healthy body. So when I cook pasta as a main meal, then use the leftovers as snacks (when there are any leftovers!)

I like to try different flavored olive oils as a very simple sauce for my pasta. For example, you could try these three flavors:

1. Thai-Inspired Olive Oil: Thai-inspired extra virgin olive oil with lemongrass, garlic, basil, lime, and chili.

2. Mediterranean Olive Oil – Mediterranean basil, garlic, pepper, thyme and lemon in extra virgin olive oil.

3. Spicy Mexican Olive Oil: Mexican-inspired extra virgin olive oil with garlic, chili, lime, basil, pepper, and thyme.

These oils on their own will add amazing flavor to plain pasta. Imagine what you could do by adding some herbs and/or spices as well. Simple, boring no more!

I think the combination of a mix of herbs and spices with a flavored oil, some fresh seasonal vegetables, pasta and the addition of chicken strips would also be heavenly and healthy.

There are three blends I might recommend you find:

1. A Moroccan Mix: Works wonderfully with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or fresh greens.

2. A Mediterranean Mix: When mixed with chicken and rice risotto or to flavor proteins, couscous and vegetables, it’s just fantastic.

3. A Tunisian-style mix: a medium-hot mix with nuts, inspired by harisa to mix with lentils, chickpeas and vegetables.

There are many combinations of oils, herbs, spices, and ingredients you can use to add variety to your meals, including healthy pasta options.

Take your taste buds on an international flavor trip sensation!

Check that the products you use do not contain added monosodium glutamate, preservatives or gluten for a healthier life. A great addition to any pantry that wants to try foods with flavors from around the world.