21 Quick and Easy Pasta Recipes for Busy Lunches

Pasta isn’t just a dinner option—it can make a hearty, satisfying lunch too.

Whether you’re craving something creamy, light and fresh, or bold and spicy, pasta offers endless possibilities to elevate your midday meal.

From quick 20-minute dishes to more indulgent, restaurant-style recipes, there’s a pasta for every palate.

In this blog, we’ve curated 21 lunch pasta recipes that are perfect for workdays, weekend lunches, or anytime you want a comforting, flavorful dish.

Each recipe is designed to be easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and utterly satisfying.

21 Quick and Easy Pasta Recipes for Busy Lunches

Whether you prefer a rich, creamy sauce, a zesty, spicy kick, or a light, refreshing salad, these 21 lunch pasta recipes have something for everyone.

They are perfect for meal prep, quick weekday lunches, or impressing friends with a homemade meal.

With these versatile recipes, you’ll never look at lunch the same way again—pasta can be quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious all at once.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a luscious cream sauce tossed with your favorite pasta.

Perfect for a satisfying lunch that feels indulgent but comes together quickly.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a slight kick

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using. Toss in spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired sauce consistency.
7. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top.

This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying lunch that feels indulgent yet approachable.

The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan elevates a simple pasta dish into a lunch favorite.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Bright and zesty, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick, refreshing lunch option.

Tender shrimp are sautéed with garlic, then tossed with linguine and a light lemon-butter sauce for a vibrant flavor.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Cook linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in lemon zest, juice, and red pepper flakes.
4. Lower heat and add butter to create a light sauce. Toss the cooked linguine in the sauce until evenly coated.
5. Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently with the pasta. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a bright, flavorful lunch that feels light yet satisfying.

The zesty lemon and garlicky butter sauce perfectly complement the tender shrimp, making it a quick but impressive dish.

Roasted Vegetable Pesto Pasta

This vegetarian-friendly Roasted Vegetable Pesto Pasta is full of color, texture, and flavor.

Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are tossed with pasta and a fragrant basil pesto for a wholesome lunch.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz penne or farfalle pasta
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: toasted pine nuts for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.
3. Add roasted vegetables to the pasta along with basil pesto. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with toasted pine nuts if desired. Serve warm.

This Roasted Vegetable Pesto Pasta is a hearty, wholesome lunch that’s both colorful and flavorful.

The roasted vegetables add natural sweetness, while the pesto ties everything together for a simple yet satisfying meal.

Spicy Sausage Penne

This Spicy Sausage Penne delivers a bold, flavorful punch for lunch.

Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions are simmered in a tangy tomato sauce and tossed with penne pasta for a satisfying, hearty meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
3. Add onion and bell peppers, sautéing until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Toss in cooked penne and mix until pasta is coated with sauce.
6. Serve with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil sprinkled on top.

Spicy Sausage Penne is a bold and comforting lunch pasta, perfect for anyone who loves a touch of heat.

The combination of sausage, peppers, and rich tomato sauce makes each bite full of flavor.

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta

A luxurious, vegetarian-friendly pasta, this dish combines earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a creamy garlic sauce.

It’s indulgent yet simple, perfect for a leisurely lunch.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz fettuccine or linguine
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 6–7 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta is rich, comforting, and full of depth.

Perfect for a lunch that feels indulgent yet wholesome, it’s a vegetarian option that will satisfy everyone.

Caprese Pasta Salad

This Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant lunch option.

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are combined with pasta and a light balsamic dressing, making it perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz rotini or farfalle pasta
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: drizzle of balsamic glaze for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour over pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for flavors to meld. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.

Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and easy lunch, perfect for warmer days or for a light meal.

The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with tangy balsamic makes it irresistibly fresh and flavorful.

Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta

A creamy, spicy pasta that brings a taste of the South to your lunch table.

Tender chicken is seasoned with Cajun spices, then tossed with fettuccine in a rich Alfredo sauce.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, tossing until evenly coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta is creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy.

Perfect for a satisfying lunch that feels indulgent.

Pesto Shrimp Pasta

A vibrant, herbaceous pasta featuring succulent shrimp tossed in homemade or store-bought basil pesto.

Quick, fresh, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup basil pesto
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Optional: cherry tomatoes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper and sauté until pink and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté briefly. Stir in pesto and lemon juice, then toss in cooked pasta.
4. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and cherry tomatoes.

Pesto Shrimp Pasta is fresh, fragrant, and perfect for a quick yet satisfying lunch.

The combination of herbs, garlic, and shrimp makes each bite a delight.

Bolognese Pasta

A hearty, classic Italian lunch option.

This Bolognese Pasta features a slow-simmered meat sauce with rich tomato flavors, perfect over tagliatelle or spaghetti.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz tagliatelle or spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Pour in crushed tomatoes and wine, then add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–25 minutes.
4. Toss cooked pasta with sauce and serve topped with Parmesan cheese.

Bolognese Pasta is rich, comforting, and classic. The slow-simmered sauce makes this a lunch that feels hearty and satisfying.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

A delicious vegetarian pasta option, featuring pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and spinach, baked with marinara sauce and cheese for a filling lunch.

Ingredients:

• 12 large pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and cool slightly.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on a baking dish and place stuffed shells in it. Pour remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella.
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are comforting, cheesy, and perfect for a lunch that’s satisfying and wholesome.

Each bite is packed with flavor.

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta

A simple yet indulgent lunch pasta where tender mushrooms are sautéed in garlic butter and tossed with spaghetti or fettuccine.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz pasta of choice
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms until golden and tender.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss cooked pasta with mushroom mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta is earthy, rich, and satisfying.

It’s a quick, flavorful lunch that feels like a treat.

Mediterranean Pasta Salad

A fresh and colorful pasta salad featuring olives, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta, and a light lemon-olive oil dressing.

Perfect for a cool, refreshing lunch.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz rotini or farfalle pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and red onion.
3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour over pasta and toss to coat evenly.
4. Chill for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is light, vibrant, and refreshing, making it an ideal lunch.

The combination of vegetables, feta, and lemon dressing makes it both healthy and flavorful.

Truffle Mushroom Fettuccine

An indulgent and aromatic pasta dish, Truffle Mushroom Fettuccine combines earthy mushrooms with a luxurious truffle cream sauce.

Perfect for a sophisticated lunch.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp truffle oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms until golden, about 6–7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and truffle oil. Toss in cooked fettuccine and mix until evenly coated.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Truffle Mushroom Fettuccine is rich, decadent, and perfect for a lunch that feels like a fine dining experience.

The truffle aroma elevates the earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce.

Lobster Mac and Cheese

A decadent twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring succulent lobster chunks in a creamy cheese sauce.

Ideal for a luxurious lunch treat.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Gruyère cheese
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
3. Add cheddar, Gruyère, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
4. Mix in cooked macaroni and lobster. Pour into a baking dish.
5. Toss breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over pasta. Bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Lobster Mac and Cheese is creamy, indulgent, and luxurious.

Each bite combines cheesy comfort with the sweet flavor of lobster, making it a perfect special lunch.

Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles

A vibrant, flavorful noodle dish inspired by Thai cuisine.

Spicy peanut sauce coats noodles and vegetables, creating a satisfying lunch packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz rice noodles or spaghetti
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ cup green onions, sliced
• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• ¼ cup chopped peanuts for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and sesame oil to make the sauce.
3. In a skillet, sauté bell peppers and carrots for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Add noodles and sauce to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
5. Garnish with chopped peanuts and green onions before serving.

Spicy Thai Peanut Noodles are vibrant, creamy, and satisfying.

The spicy, tangy peanut sauce makes this dish an exciting lunch option.

Smoked Salmon Pasta

A sophisticated pasta for lunch, combining smoked salmon, cream, and fresh dill.

Light yet luxurious, perfect for a refined midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz linguine or fettuccine
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 6 oz smoked salmon, sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add cream and lemon zest, simmer for 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add smoked salmon and cook briefly until heated through.
4. Toss pasta with sauce and sprinkle with fresh dill. Serve immediately.

Smoked Salmon Pasta is light, creamy, and elegant.

The smoky salmon paired with fresh dill and lemon zest creates a delicate, flavorful lunch dish.

Chicken Carbonara

A quick, creamy pasta that’s full of flavor.

Chicken and bacon are combined with a Parmesan-egg sauce for a satisfying and hearty lunch.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain the rest.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
3. Add bacon to the skillet and cook until crispy. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan. Remove skillet from heat and quickly toss in pasta, chicken, and egg mixture. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a creamy sauce.
5. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan.

Chicken Carbonara is rich, creamy, and comforting.

The combination of chicken, bacon, and Parmesan creates a classic, satisfying lunch pasta.

Mediterranean Seafood Pasta

A light yet flavorful pasta dish featuring shrimp, mussels, and calamari in a garlic-tomato sauce.

Perfect for a sophisticated, healthy lunch.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb mussels, cleaned
• ½ lb calamari rings
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.
3. Add diced tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes. Add seafood and cook until shrimp turn pink and mussels open, about 5–6 minutes. Discard any unopened mussels.
4. Toss cooked pasta with seafood and sauce. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Mediterranean Seafood Pasta is fresh, flavorful, and elegant.

The combination of garlic, tomato, and seafood makes it a perfect lunch for seafood lovers.

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

A bold and spicy pasta dish where succulent shrimp are tossed with penne in a creamy Cajun sauce. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for a flavorful lunch.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook penne according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp until pink and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add cream, broth, and Parmesan, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with pasta until evenly coated.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Cajun Shrimp Pasta is creamy, spicy, and satisfying. It’s a quick lunch that packs bold flavors and feels indulgent without being heavy.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta

A vibrant and healthy pasta that combines sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a light garlic-olive oil sauce.

Perfect for a bright, quick lunch.

Ingredients:

• 10 oz penne or farfalle pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add sun-dried tomatoes and cook 1–2 minutes.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the vegetables and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta is fresh, colorful, and full of flavor.

It’s a quick, nutritious lunch that feels satisfying and wholesome.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

A comforting and flavorful pasta where tender chicken is tossed with pasta in a creamy pesto sauce.

Quick to make, it’s perfect for a hearty lunch.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup basil pesto
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional: cherry tomatoes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in pesto and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and toss with pasta until everything is coated in creamy sauce.
5. Garnish with cherry tomatoes if desired and serve immediately.

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta is rich, flavorful, and satisfying.

The combination of pesto, cream, and tender chicken makes it an ideal lunch that feels indulgent but easy to prepare.