Best 2 Toddler Veggie Packed Pasta Recipes

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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



Veggie-Packed Pasta image

Provided by Ree Drummond : Food Network

Categories     main-dish

Time 1h

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 17

Kosher salt, to taste
12 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bunch asparagus, cut into bite-size pieces
1 medium zucchini, cut into bite-size chunks
Black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup white wine
2 cups torn fresh kale
1 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup prepared pesto
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley leaves, for serving

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



Toddler Veggie Packed Pasta image

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

2 cups mini farfalle pasta or 2 cups other small shell pasta
1 jar of prepared pasta sauce
1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups steam in the bag frozen mixed vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli and carrots)

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!

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