Valentine's Meals for Kids
A fun and nutritious meal for kids featuring heart-shaped pasta and colorful vegetables, perfect for Valentine's Day celebrations.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces heart-shaped pasta Use any small-shaped pasta if heart-shaped is not available.
- 1 cup tomato sauce Choose your favorite sauce variety.
- 1 cup grated cheese Parmesan, mozzarella, or any child's favorite cheese.
Vegetables
- 1 cup colorful vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini) Chop into bite-sized pieces for kids.
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.
- to taste Salt For seasoning.
- to taste Pepper For seasoning.
- to taste Fresh herbs (basil, oregano, or Italian seasoning) Use according to flavor preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients. Wash and chop the colorful vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Measure out the pasta, sauce, and cheese.
Cooking Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the heart-shaped pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Sautéing Vegetables
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender and vibrant.
Combining Ingredients
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the pasta along with the tomato sauce and mix thoroughly until well combined.
Final Seasoning
- Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and fresh herbs, stirring to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Gently fold in the grated cheese until melted and incorporated.
Serving
- Serve the colorful pasta into bowls and create a delightful presentation.
- Top with extra cheese or fresh herbs as desired.
Notes
This dish is customizable. Use different vegetables, pasta shapes, or cheeses based on preferences. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.