Veggie Pasta Salad – Featured Healthy Recipe for Kids

Veggie Pasta Salad

PREHEAT: burner, medium to high temperature
PANS/EQUIPMENT: large saucepan, mixing bowl
COOK TIME: 20 minutes (pasta) – varies per pasta shape
PREP TIME: prep while pasta is cooking!
NUMBER OF SERVINGS: 4 or more depending on ages

8 ounces pasta, shape of choice (Penne, Elbow, Ziti!) –(try Spelt pasta)
Place in saucepan. Cover with water. Put in burner and bring to boil. Turn down heat and simmer until pasta is slightly tender. Drain and rinse under cool water.

1 cup broccoli florets (just tips), steamed
1 cup peas, steamed (Steam together with broccoli to save time.)
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup white cheese of choice, low-fat shredded
2 Tablespoons Italian dressing (no added sugar)
Combine in large salad bowl. Stir well. Add pasta. Serve.

OPTIONS: Add chopped green olives, carrots, baby corn, red onions, red cabbage, artichoke hearts, or other vegetables of choice. Add cooked or deli turkey or chicken, or chopped hard-boiled eggs for protein.

5+ GOD-MADE FOOD COLORS: white, golden, green, red, brown (+ other option colors)
5+ FOOD CIRCLES: grains, essential fatty acids, vegetables, fruit, dairy

SERVE WITH: broiled chicken, water

FAMILY COMMENTS: “Easy to make. Tastes good. We liked it with black olives.” (mother of two)

Veggie Pasta Salad – Featured Healthy Recipe for Kids