Veggie Pasta with Hidden Tomato Sauce
Small pasta shapes in a smooth vegetable-packed tomato sauce. The vegetables are blended into the sauce so picky eaters get their nutrients without fuss.
Ingredients(7)
- 80g small pasta shapes (orzo, mini shells, or ditalini)
- 1/2 cup passata or canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
- 1/4 small courgette (zucchini), chopped
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated parmesan (optional)
Instructions(10 steps)
- 1
Bring a pot of water to boil for the pasta.
- 2
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 4
Add chopped bell pepper and courgette. Cook for 8-10 minutes until very soft.
- 5
Add passata and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- 6
While sauce simmers, cook pasta according to package directions until very soft (slightly beyond al dente for young eaters).
- 7
Blend the sauce until smooth using an immersion blender or countertop blender.
- 8
Drain pasta and toss with the smooth vegetable sauce.
- 9
Sprinkle with grated parmesan if using.
- 10
Cool to eating temperature and chop any long pasta shapes if needed.
Nutritional Highlights
- -Hidden vegetables add vitamins A and C
- -Pasta provides energy from carbohydrates
- -Tomatoes offer lycopene antioxidant
- -Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats
Age Appropriateness
Perfect for 12-18 month olds who can handle chopped soft foods. The small pasta shapes are easy to pick up with a spoon or fingers.
Introduction Tip
Use small pasta shapes that are easy for toddlers to scoop. Let them practice with a spoon even if messy - it builds motor skills.