Pasta Primavera, a dish that brings the freshness of spring to your plate, is now tailored for your little ones! Our Kid-Friendly Pasta Primavera combines colorful vegetables with a mild, creamy sauce and tender pasta — a perfect way to introduce more veggies into your child's diet. It's a wholesome, vibrant, and delicious meal that will have kids asking for seconds.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 plate
Ingredients
- Pasta (like farfalle or penne): 400 grams (0.88 pounds)
- Carrots: 2, sliced
- Broccoli: 200 grams (0.44 pounds), cut into florets
- Peas: 100 grams (0.22 pounds)
- Bell Peppers: 1, sliced
- Cherry Tomatoes: 150 grams (0.33 pounds), halved
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cream: 200 ml (about 1 cup)
- Parmesan Cheese: 50 grams (0.11 pounds), grated
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Basil: for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for a minute. Add carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers. Cook until slightly tender.
- Add Peas and Tomatoes: Stir in peas and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the vegetables. Mix gently.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the cream and add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use your kids' favorite vegetables or what you have on hand.
- Creamy but Light: Adjust the amount of cream to make the sauce lighter or richer as per your preference.
- Cheese Options: Apart from Parmesan, try using mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? It's best served fresh, but you can prep the vegetables in advance.
- How can I add more protein to this dish? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Can I use whole wheat pasta? Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthier option and works well in this recipe.