Do you miss pasta?? Has it triggered bladder or stomach pain? You are certainly not alone. Tomato sauce is remarkably high in acid and can trigger IC flares, especially in patients with Hunner’s lesions and/or Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (i.e. estrogen atrophy).

You CAN enjoy pasta again and pasta Primavera is the perfect entree for the Spring and Summer. It’s lighter, flavorful, filled with fresh veggies and much lower in acid. And it couldn’t be easier.

Pasta Options

I prefer going gluten free, usually with a corn, rice or quinoa pasta because wheat based pasta seems to cause a lot of extra bloating for me. My first choice is the organic gluten free pasta options from Ancient Harvest, made with corn, brown rice and quinoa. Barilla also offers some good gluten-free options, including spaghetti, fettuccini, rotini and penne . Shouldn’t a meal be fun?? For birthday meals, try using bow shaped pasta, known as Farfalle. For the boys and men in your life, you can’t go wrong with wheel shaped pasta!

Toppings & Sauce

For the veg, hit up any Farmers Market for your favorites. I use:

  • Garlic and Chives – For savory flavors without the irritation that onion can cause.
  • Yellow squash and zucchini – Perfectly bladder friendly and in every batch I make.
  • Carrots – Thinly sliced for bright flavor and crunch
  • Asparagus – Also for crunch and a lighter, spring flavor profile.
  • Mushrooms – Sliced white or portabello mushrooms for a richer, earthier flavor.
  • Cherry or pear tomatoes* (optional) – Yellow tomatoes are very low in acid if they are picked when ripe. When heated in olive oil, they burst and lightly coating the pasta in their juices.  Look for them at your summer Farmer’s market.
  • Peas – For a rich, mellow flavor and extra fiber, add some frozen peas to the mix.
  • Broccoli – Use very small sprigs for light, fresh spring flavors
  • Pecorino or Parmesan cheese to add a creamy base. If you’re looking for more flavor, try some Feta cheese or Mozzarella balls.
  • Fresh basil, tarragon or parsley – Fresh spices bring much more flavor than dried!
  • Salt and pepper  to taste.

Prep

First, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water to al dente. It will cook a little more with the veggies on the stove, so don’t overcook it now. Toss with a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.

Next, sauté the veggies. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet, then toss all veggies in and sauté until soft. It should only take a few minutes.  Then add the pasta, peas and cheese to the pan. Toss until the cheese melts. Add your fresh herbs, salt & pepper and season to taste. Serve with hot sourdough or garlic bread! Enjoy!

Yes, my fellow bladder pain patients, you really can enjoy pasta again! – Jill :)