My boys have accused me for years of sneaking in healthy additions to our food. They had every right to accuse me, because I knew they would pick out strange or green things, so I simply pureed any onions, peppers, herbs or mushrooms before I added it to the dish. They were non the wiser for many years! Last week, we hosted my niece and her husband for a dinner. I know for a fact that their diet is lacking in veggies, so I turned deceptive once again. Aha….
Every young kid loves Italian and I knew these kids were no different… My first stealthy move was to sauté one large red bell pepper and one medium onion in a T. of olive oil.
Add one can of chopped tomatoes and simmer 5 minutes. I still had some Dei Fratelli products that they sent me as a thank-you gift and was delighted to use them in this recipe…
Next I cut up 2 chicken breasts and browned them in a little oil and seasoned with salt and pepper.
In my VitaMix blender, I pureed the onion, pepper and tomato mixture . Pour this mixture along with a jar of the traditional Italian sauce into a large sauce pan. Add the chicken and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
Prepare half of a 12oz. box of whole wheat rotini according to box directions.
Drain and add to meat mixture. Stir until pasta is incorporated with the chicken and sauce. Place 3 large globs of Ricotta cheese on a large pasta platter. Spoon pasta mixture over cheese. Top with grated Parmesan Cheese. The Ricotta is a nice creamy surprise when you spoon each serving onto the plates!
Those kids schlicked up every bit of this food, loving every bite! Now, if none of you readers share this story, they will be none the wiser and just a bit healthier!
I was gone all day and only had 30 minutes to prepare this meal! Rachel R. would be proud of me.
Sounds delicious! I like to sneak healthy things into food too whenever I can.