Whole-Wheat Penne with Green Beans

Whole-Wheat Penne with Green Beans

Why Is Whole-Grain Pasta Healthier Than White Pasta?
The seeds of whole grains have three components called the endosperm, germ and bran. When these are intact, whole grains offer you higher nutrient value. We know that the carbs are a nutrient that our body needs. They function to give you energy and support the brain and nervous system. Simple carbs occur naturally in milk, milk derivatives and fruits, but they are also prominent in cakes, cookies, candy, sweet drinks and sugary cereals. When consumed, simple carbs give you a fast spike of energy, but it wears off quickly. White pasta is technically a complex carb, but it is refined and starchy. This makes it act like a simple carb in the body. Consistent intake of simple carbs can promote weight gain and hinder weight loss efforts. Complex carbs, on the other hand, are digested at a slow pace and give you lasting energy levels. Whole-grain pasta is a good source of complex carbs. ACS Guidelines for Nutrition recommend: “Choose whole-grain breads, pasta, and cereals (such as barley and oats) instead of breads, cereals, and pasta made from refined grains, and brown rice instead of white rice”.
So if you spend extra money on whole wheat bread or pasta and you’re positive you’ll enjoy a low glycemic index, nutritional fibers, and generally better health.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. whole wheat penne or spaghetti
• 2 to 3 tablespoons pesto sauce the original recipe
• 1 lb green beans, ends trimmed
• 1 yellow onion
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• salt

Method:
Cut the green beans are into one-inch pieces.
Cut the onion into thin slices, in a large, heavy skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat and then add the onion and sauté for 4 minutes. Add the green beans, salt, the reserved pasta cooking liquid and continue cooking until the beans are tender.
Drain the pasta and immediately toss it in a large bowl with the green beans, pesto.
Bring the bowl to the table and serve