Bowtie Mac and Cheese

When you get home late and need to get the kids dinner before you even think about yourself, this dish is a great option. Kids love bowtie pasta, and the fun shape makes it easy to sprinkle in the little veggies (peas and corn) without them even noticing. Plus, these are ingredients you can keep stocked in your kitchen at all times: a box of whole wheat pasta in the cupboard, cheese in the fridge, and peas and corn in the freezer.

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat bowtie pasta
2 tablespoons cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup peas, corn and carrots steamed

Directions

1. Boil and drain pasta. Steam vegetables at same time.
2. Drain pasta and add veggies. Top with cheese and serve.

WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE Whole wheat pasta provides fiber; cheddar cheese adds protein. (Our advice: Buy organic cheese if possible.)  And throwing in the peas and corn provides the servings of veggies every meal (especially for a growing kid) needs.