Barilla Protein+ Penne Pasta Review: A Lentil, Chickpea, and Pea Blend for Higher Protein Meals

When you’re looking to add more protein to your pasta dishes without switching entirely to legume-based alternatives, Barilla’s Protein+ Penne offers a middle ground. This 14.5-ounce box contains a blend of semolina wheat, lentils, chickpeas, and peas, resulting in a pasta that looks and cooks similarly to traditional durum wheat varieties but with a modest protein boost. It’s a practical option for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anyone trying to increase their protein intake without overhauling their pantry.

The key functional feature here is the protein content: each serving provides about 10 grams of protein, compared to roughly 7 grams in standard white pasta. That difference comes from the legume flours added to the wheat base. The pasta is also Non-GMO and Kosher certified, which may matter to some shoppers. However, it is not gluten-free—the primary ingredient is still semolina wheat, so those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should look elsewhere.

In real-world usage, this pasta holds up reasonably well. When boiled according to package directions (about 9–11 minutes for al dente), it retains a firm bite and doesn’t turn mushy easily, which is a plus for leftovers. The texture is slightly grainier than 100% semolina pasta, likely due to the legume flours, but it’s subtle enough that most people won’t notice in a saucy dish. I found it works nicely with tomato-based sauces, creamy pesto, or even a simple olive oil and garlic toss. The flavor is mildly earthy, but not overpowering—it blends in without shouting “healthy pasta” at you.

That said, there are trade-offs. The cooking water becomes noticeably cloudier and starchier compared to regular pasta, so you may want to rinse it briefly if you’re sensitive to that. Also, the protein boost is modest—10 grams per serving is still far less than what you’d get from a serving of chicken or tofu, so don’t expect it to single-handedly transform a meal into a high-protein powerhouse. It’s more of a gradual improvement than a dramatic shift. Additionally, the price point is higher than standard Barilla pasta, often by 30–50%, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers.

Compared to other protein-enriched pastas on the market, Barilla Protein+ sits in a reasonable middle zone. Some competitors, like those made entirely from chickpeas or lentils (e.g., Banza), offer 20–25 grams of protein per serving but have a stronger legume taste and a denser, sometimes chalky texture. Barilla’s blend is milder and more familiar, making it a better entry point for picky eaters or families. On the other hand, if you’re aiming for a very high protein meal and don’t mind the flavor shift, a 100% legume pasta might be more effective. For those who just want a small, easy improvement over regular pasta, this product fits the bill.

Who is this pasta suitable for? It’s a decent choice for home cooks who want to add a bit more protein to their pasta dishes without changing the overall eating experience much. It’s also good for parents trying to sneak in extra nutrients—kids who are used to traditional pasta will likely accept it without complaint. Athletes or fitness enthusiasts who need a high-protein meal might find it underwhelming, as the protein content is still relatively low compared to other sources. And as noted, it’s not appropriate for anyone on a gluten-free diet.

One limitation worth noting: the pasta can be slightly more prone to sticking together after cooking if you don’t stir it occasionally in the first few minutes. Using plenty of salted water helps, but it’s not a foolproof product. Also, the box size (14.5 ounces) is a bit smaller than the standard 16-ounce pasta box, so if you’re used to cooking a full pound, you’ll need to adjust portions or buy two boxes.

Overall, Barilla Protein+ Penne is a functional, no-fuss product that delivers on its promise of extra protein without major compromises. It’s not a revolutionary health food, but it’s a practical upgrade for everyday cooking. Just keep your expectations realistic: it’s pasta, not a protein shake.

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