Nutrition for Kids & Family Meal Planning: One Pot Veggie Pasta

Getting children to adopt healthy eating habits can be a challenge, but research shows that hands-on learning encourages kids to try new foods and even eat their vegetables. 

This nutritious One Pot Veggie Pasta is the perfect meal to cook together, with ample opportunities for kids to help and most importantly, easy clean-up! Download the handout for more family-friendly recipes adapted from our program Nutrition for Kids & Family Meal Planning. 

One Pot Veggie Pasta – Serves 4

INGREDIENTS: 

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28-ounce can) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
• 8 ounces medium size pasta, such as penne, farfalle, or gemelli (2 cups dry)
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed & drained
• ½ cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 4 cups baby spinach
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese 

PREPARATION:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. 

2. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning blend, and pasta. Stir to combine, turn the heat to medium-high, and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes on low, stirring occasionally. 

3. Stir in the beans and red peppers and continue cooking covered for 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through. Remove from heat and stir in the spinach and parmesan cheese. 

NOTE:

Swap the beans with any cooked protein of choice at the end, such cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp. Raw shrimp can be swapped for the beans at the end. Add the raw shrimp and allow to cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through.

Everyday Eats for Healthful Family Meal Planning