5 Healthier Pasta Recipes

By Suzanne Lenzer
Healthy dinners go light on the noodles and load up on veggies and protein. Dig into these recipes that make a hearty family meal out of just 8 ounces of pasta.
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Paella-Style Pasta

Kana Okada
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A family-friendly take on a Spanish favorite, this dish relies on shrimp and veggies to bulk up the orzo. Double the amount of corn if your kid doesn't like peas -- or vice versa.

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Sausage & White Bean Orecchiette

Kana Okada
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Have you heard? Protein-packed beans mix well with ear-shaped pasta. If you're following a diet low in saturated fat, use turkey or chicken sausage to make the dish.

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Paella Pasta Bake

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Fettuccine With Meatballs

Kana Okada
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The protein-rich meatballs will help fill your kids up.

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How to Raise Nutrition-Savvy Kids

Healthy eating is the foundation of a healthy life. Here is how you can help your kids be smart about nutrition.

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On Top of Spaghetti

Kana Okada
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... put bacon, spinach, and protein-rich chickpeas! If your kid snubs spinach, try making the dish with broccoli instead.

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Mac 'n' Cheese Ratatouille Bake

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Baked Ratatouille Casserole

Kana Okada
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Watch the classic Disney flick first, then watch your kids gobble up the eggplant in this dish.

Originally published in the December 2014 issue of Parents magazine.

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