Description
Veggie Orzo is a healthy toddler-approved dinner idea featuring tender orzo pasta mixed with colorful, nutrient-rich vegetables. This easy, wholesome dish is perfect for busy parents seeking a quick and nutritious meal that kids love and enjoy. Packed with fresh vegetables and simple ingredients, it makes for a delightful and nourishing dinner option for your little one.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup of orzo pasta
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of diced zucchini
- 1 cup of diced carrots
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped spinach or kale
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Optional: grated cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and prepare vegetables by washing and dicing into bite-sized pieces. Consider using a veggie prep tool for efficiency.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add diced carrots and zucchini, sauté until tender. Then add cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until tomatoes soften and greens wilt.
- Combine the cooked orzo with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Toss gently, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors. Add cheese or nutritional yeast if desired.
Notes
- You can customize the vegetables based on your child’s preferences or seasonally available produce.
- For creamier texture, stir in Greek yogurt or cooked cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheated in microwave or skillet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Healthy Toddler Meal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg