# Barilla Protein+ Elbows Pasta Review: Real Performance from a Marine’s Kitchen
I picked up a box of Barilla Protein+ Elbows Pasta, 14.5 Oz from the shelf because I was tired of eating the same bland carbs day in and day out. As someone who spent years in the Marines, I know the difference between marketing hype and actual substance. This pasta from Barilla caught my attention because it promised more protein than standard pasta, and at $11.52 per box, I figured it was worth testing whether it delivered on that claim or just sold empty promises to people like me looking for better nutrition.
The packaging is straightforward. No nonsense, which I appreciate. The Barilla Protein+ Elbows Pasta, 14.5 Oz box shows you exactly what you’re getting, and the ingredient list doesn’t hide behind flowery language. This is a legume-based pasta made with chickpeas, lentils, and peas mixed with durum wheat. Right there on the nutrition label, I could see 10 grams of protein per serving compared to about 7 grams in regular pasta. That’s a solid difference, not some trivial bump.
Why the Barilla Protein+ Elbows Pasta, 14.5 Oz Stands Out
I boiled up a batch without overthinking it, using the cooking time on the box. The pasta held up well. It didn’t turn into mush or develop that weird musty smell that some high-protein pastas get. The texture was firm enough that it didn’t disintegrate under sauce, which matters when you’re building an actual meal. I dressed it simply with olive oil, garlic, and a good marinara, then added some grilled chicken on top. The Barilla Protein+ Elbows Pasta, 14.5 Oz pairs well with standard topping