If you are like me and trying to cut back on carbs or calories, you are probably trying to eat a smaller portion of pasta. It is sad I know to see that wee amount in your bowl. I make mine seem bigger by adding more vegetables! My two ounces of penne looks and eats much larger because I have added a bunch of broccolini with the stems diced, sautéed onions and sliced garlic, and mushrooms cooked to a golden brown. The liquid part of my sauce consists of pasta water and a teaspoon of olive oil. I finished mine with a sprinkling of parmesan but leave it out if you want a vegan dish. Be sure to season your pasta water and vegetables aggressively!

Penne with mushrooms and broccolini