When it comes to feeding your toddler, it can be a challenge to find recipes that are both nutritious and appealing. One easy and delicious solution is to make a veggie-packed pasta dish. Not only is pasta a great source of carbohydrates, but it also provides a blank canvas for you to add a variety of vegetables that your toddler will love. From colorful bell peppers and juicy tomatoes to crunchy broccoli and sweet carrots, there are endless possibilities when it comes to creating a veggie-packed pasta that your toddler will gobble up. So, if you're looking for a way tosneak more vegetables into your toddler's diet, a veggie-packed pasta dish is the perfect solution.
Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!
VEGGIE-PACKED PASTA
Provided by Ree Drummond : Food Network
Categories main-dish
Time 1h
Yield 6 to 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, according to package guidelines. Drain, reserving a 1/4 cup of the pasta water (plus a little more). Set the pasta and pasta water aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large skillet over a medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic and stir. Add the asparagus and zucchini and sprinkle with a good pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring, to soften the vegetables, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the white wine, scrape up the bottom of the pan and let the wine cook down. Add the kale, peas, ricotta cheese, pesto and the reserved 1/4 cup pasta water and bring to a boil, cook for 1 minute. Add the drained pasta and mix thoroughly. Use more pasta water as needed if the sauce is too thick.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
- Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, crushed red pepper flakes and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a medium bowl and mix until well combined.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the pasta, then bake until the breadcrumbs are golden, and the sauce is bubbly, 15 to 17 minutes.
- Remove and garnish with fresh parsley.
TODDLER VEGGIE PACKED PASTA
If you have a picky toddler, you know how difficult lunch options can be! I decided to whip this up with what I had on hand. You could omit or add items as you please....I like the veggie/calcium combo! Alphabet pasta is also a good alternative for babies Store the leftovers for two days and serve as a side or meal!
Provided by missykett
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 30m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Boil pasta according to directions, I always boil it a minute longer for younger toddlers. Add pasta to serving dish and mix with olive oil and cheddar cheese.
- Steam veggies according to directions.
- Heat sauce according to directions.
- In food processor or blender add veggies, sauce, and cream cheese. Blend well. Sauce will be thick.
- Stir sauce in with pasta and serve.
Tips:
- Choose nutrient-rich vegetables: Opt for vegetables that are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Some great options include broccoli, spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes, and zucchini.
- Use a variety of colors: Use a mix of colorful vegetables to create a visually appealing and nutritious dish. Different colors indicate different nutrient profiles, so you'll get a wider range of essential vitamins and minerals.
- Chop vegetables into small pieces: This will make them easier for toddlers to eat and digest. You can also puree or mash vegetables for younger toddlers.
- Use flavorful ingredients: Add herbs, spices, and seasonings to enhance the taste of the pasta dish. This will make it more appealing to toddlers who might be hesitant to try new vegetables.
- Cook the vegetables properly: Avoid overcooking the vegetables, as this can make them mushy and less appealing. Cook them until they are tender but still retain their vibrant color and nutrients.
- Serve the pasta dish with a variety of toppings: This will allow toddlers to customize their meal and make it more fun. Some popular topping options include shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and crumbled bacon.
Conclusion:
Toddler veggie-packed pasta is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for picky eaters. By following these tips, you can create a pasta dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients that your toddler will love. So next time you're looking for a healthy and easy meal, give veggie-packed pasta a try!
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
#30-minutes-or-less #time-to-make #course #main-ingredient #preparation #lunch #main-dish #pasta #vegetables #kid-friendly #vegetarian #dietary #one-dish-meal #infant-baby-friendly #toddler-friendly #pasta-rice-and-grains
You'll also love