Organic Black Bean Spaghetti – High Protein, High Fibre, Gluten Free – #TDapproved

For anyone who has been over on my facebook profile for at least the last few months, you would be well aware that I am a seriously huge fan of organic black bean spaghetti! (it is literally just black beans and water!).

This awesome product is high protein, high fibre, low GI, and actually relatively low carbohydrate (meaning it would have a low glycemic load, which prevents blood glucose spikes). It is a great alternative to regular pasta, and seeing that it is made from black beans, it is also gluten free for people that need a gluten free option.

At 180 calories per serve (serving size is 56g), Black Bean Spaghetti has 12 grams of fibre and 25 g of protein per serve (now thats impressive!); It is extremely nutrient dense, low calorie, and satiating (which helps prevent over eating).

As a comparison, if you were to consume a portion of 1 cup (140g) of cooked regular wholemeal spaghetti, for the same number of calories, you would only obtain 7g of protein and 6g of fibre (and that’s being generous..I’ve seen wholemeal pastas that provide a lot less protein and fibre, for far more calories).

I think those numbers paint a pretty clear picture…at least twice the dietary fibre, and three times the protein per serve…we are onto a winner here!

Jacinta, my new blog assistant, actually found some interesting information which suggested that black beans may have an inverse association with colon cancer (now this is getting interesting for the health enthusiasts out there!)..the research in this area is still relatively sparse but there are some great studies being carried out that support this hypothesis.

The theory relates to the indigestible fraction of the bean which is said to be higher than that in either lentils or chickpeas. Black beans also contain saponins, protease inhibitors, and phytic acid, which have all been shown to have anti colon cancer properties.

These little beauties also happen to have a high level of antioxidant activity, much of which comes from the flavonoids found in their black skin.

Black Bean Spaghetti can be used as you would any other type of pasta; although it is probably more akin to Asian style dishes. I have used it in both Asian and Italian style dishes (pictured above and below), so I would say you could use it in either!

This product may prove a fantastic alternative to regular pasta for those who are looking for a lower calorie pasta alternative that is also rich in fibre, protein, and micronutrients. It is also a great base for a vegetarian or vegan meal, offering a boost of protein to a plant based meal.

Organic black bean pasta with vegetables and quorn (plant based product) – high protein, high fibre, low calorie healthy meal!

You can buy Organic Black Bean Spaghetti from many health food stores, as well as online from Wellamy, the Gluten Free Shop, and I’m sure there are many other options too if you just do a google search for retailers in your region.

As always I’d love to hear about any recipes using #TDApproved products. Have you used organic black bean spaghetti?

I would also love to know when you give this product a try.

As many of you know, this is my last #TDapproved post in Australia for this year..

Next week, I’ll be tuning in from my new home in NYC (gosh I’m excited now!)

Look forward to connecting from the other side!

For now,

Travelling Dietitian x