Rainbow Veggies from Healthier Together: A Shared Recipe for our Donors!

Our goal is to improve the health of children wherever they are. Learn more about the Better Together work at community.chop.edu.

Rainbow Veggie Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce

Serves 6–8 kids

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or spaghetti – colorful pasta works great for kids)
• 1 small zucchini – chopped into small cubes
• 1 small yellow squash – chopped into small cubes
• 1 small eggplant – chopped into small cubes (optional for texture variety)
• 1 small bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange) – chopped
• 1 small head broccoli – cut into small florets
• 2 cloves garlic – minced
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt & pepper to taste

Kid-friendly optional toppings that work great with the veggie pasta so the kids can customize their bowls:

Savory & Cheesy

• Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Feta crumbles (for older kids who like a tangy flavor)
• Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)

Crunchy & Fun

• Toasted breadcrumbs or panko
• Crushed whole-grain crackers
• Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

Fresh & Colorful

• Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil)
• Cherry tomato halves
• Diced cucumbers (for a cool crunch)
• Sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

Sweet & Unexpected

• Diced peaches (fresh or lightly grilled for a warm, sweet twist)
• Raisins or dried cranberries

Extra Flavor Boosts

• Olive oil drizzle
• Ranch dressing drizzle (kids love this)
• Mild vinaigrette
• Garlic butter drizzle

Kid-Friendly Cooking Steps

1. Prep the Veggies

• Kids Can:
  • Wash all vegetables.
  • Help cut soft veggies (zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers) using kid-safe knives.
  • Break broccoli into small florets by hand.
• Grown-Up Task: Dice onions, eggplant, and mince garlic.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Grown-Up Task: Boil water and cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies

• Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet.
• Add garlic and onions, cook for 1–2 minutes.
• Add zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, eggplant, and broccoli. Sauté until just tender (about 5–6 minutes).

4. Combine & Serve

• Add cooked pasta to skillet with veggies. Toss well. Season with salt & pepper.
• Kids Can:
  • Stir pasta and veggies together.
  • Sprinkle cheese on top if desired.

5. Fun Extras

• Serve with sliced peaches on the side for a sweet bite.
• Pair with a quick lettuce salad the kids can build themselves.

Tips

• Pre-chop firmer veggies so kids only handle safe, soft pieces.
• Use brightly colored veggies for visual appeal.
• Let kids “assemble” their own bowls—pasta first, then veggies, then toppings.