The “So Delicious” Gluten-Free Cacio e Pepe I Make at Least 3x a Week

I’m sure I’m not alone when I say that my weeknights can be hectic. Because of this, I’m always looking for ways to cut corners when it comes to dinner. That being said, I still want my meals to taste good and pack some nutrients. Recently, I’ve been dialing back my gluten intake (per my doctor’s recommendation), so I’ve been experimenting with tons of gluten-free options. One brand that immediately came to my mind? ZENB.

Beloved by many for its yellow pea pasta, ZENB comes highly recommended by other gluten-free members of our team, so it ranked highly on my shopping list as I began looking for gluten alternatives. Since easy, quick dinners were also my priority, you can imagine my delight when I came across one of the brand’s newest releases: Pasta Sides! Marketed as a tasty, al dente side that can go on the table in minutes, I immediately picked it up, and reader, I’m never putting it down. 

Designed to take the stress out of cooking a gluten-free side that still tastes delicious, ZENB’s Pasta Sides are not to be slept on. This line features four flavors — Cashew e Pepe, Broccoli & Almonds, Roasted Garlic Soy, and Chili Fiesta — that are all made with the brand’s trademark yellow pea pasta, and ready to eat in three to five minutes. The best part? No unnecessary ingredients. The only thing included besides the pasta is a mix of seasonings! To top it off, these sides are loaded with protein and fiber, making them a filling addition to any dinner. 

When I first picked up this set I was beyond excited. The flavor combinations sounded right up my alley, and I loved the variety it offers, allowing me to effortlessly switch up my meals throughout the week. In fact, since I’ve started eating these pasta sides, there have been times when I’ve made them numerous times in one week. The Cashew e Pepe is on a consistent rotation in my home.

After putting each flavor to the test, I can confidently say that they all stand up to traditional pasta dishes. I even tried them out with my family, who had nothing but good things to say, and best of all, they didn’t even notice they were gluten-free! Not only do I have a solid side to make in a pinch, but I finally have something all my friends and family members can enjoy together, whether they’re also gluten-free or not. (I brought a ZENB dish to Friendsgiving with tons of success).

ZENB’s Pasta Sides Variety Set normally comes in at $40 for 10 bags, but right now you can get your hands it for just $28. Looking to pick up only your favorite flavor, like Cashew e Pepe? They also sell single flavor sets for the same price! Either way, I think you’ll find these sides are about to become your new go-to pantry staple — and there’s something even better about scoring them on sale, too, right? 

Buy: ZENB Pasta Sides Variety Set, $27.99 (normally $39.99)