Protein- Packed- Macaroni Pie

Macaroni pie is a family favourite in my home, especially for the kids. They love anything made with macaroni or pasta. And I guess who doesn't? But most macaroni pies are filled with unhealthy amounts of cheese, milk and eggs and I wanted to make a healthier version for my family. So I made one that's packed with healthy veggies such as beets, carrots, tomatoes and creamy tofu for added protein. Its delicious and satisfying and can be served as a side dish or better yet enjoy it as meal because its got everything you need all in one pie!

Try the recipe for an easy-to-make, and satisfying lunch. You wont be disappointed!

Yield 6 Servings

Ingredients

• 1 Pack of Macaroni

• 1 Pack Firm Silken Tofu @morinutofu

• 1 Carrot medium diced

• 2 Medium Sized Tomatoes medium diced

• 1 Small to Medium Beet medium diced

• 2 Tbl Garlic minced

• 2 Tbl Olive oil

• 1 Tbl Oregano

• 6 Basil leaves

• 2 tsp-1 Tbl salt

• 1 Tbl paprika

• 1 C Non Dairy Milk

• 1 Tbl Nutritional yeast (and more for topping)

Method

1. Place macaroni in a pot of boiling salted water with 2 tsp oil.

2. While your macaroni is boiling, Add olive oil to a deep pot on medium heat, then add garlic, oregano and paprika. Saute until the garlic is fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes.

3. Now you can add all the other ingredients, reduce heat to a simmer, stir and cover. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the beets and carrots are tender.

4. Turn off the heat.

5. Using an emersion blender, puree all ingredients until smooth. Note: you can also cool the ingredients for a bit and then add to a food processor to puree.

6. The Macaroni should be Al Dente now (this means the macaroni should still be a bit firm when bitten).

7. Strain the cooked pasta and reserve a 1/4 C-1/2 C of the pasta water.

8. Add the strained pasta and pasta water to your creamy sauce mixture. Stir to combine, making sure all of the macaroni is coated.

9. Preheat oven to 350°F

10. Pour into a greased baking dish or pie dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top and bubbly. You can also remove foil and broil for 1-2 minutes.

11. Let the pie sit for a few minutes to set before slicing.

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