As the daffodils start peering out and the days stretch a bit longer, we know spring is tiptoeing in for the bustling households of London, where every minute counts, especially for parents juggling the endless tasks from dawn till dusk; spring promises fresh starts and lighter meals. In the spirit of embracing the season while catering to the needs of time-poor parents, we introduce you to an easy, nutritious, and delightfully tasty dinner option: Easy Peasy Springtime Veggie Pasta. It’s quick to prepare, packed with the goodness of seasonal vegetables, and a hit with kids of any age.
Ingredients:
- 300g of your favourite pasta shapes (whole wheat for an extra fibre boost!)
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- Two cloves garlic, finely chopped
- One small courgette, diced
- One small yellow bell pepper, diced
- 100g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100g fresh peas (or frozen if out of season)
- A handful of fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnishing (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the Veggies: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Toss in the courgette and bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the cherry tomatoes and peas, cooking for another 2 minutes. Finally, stir in the spinach and cook until it just begins to wilt.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta to the pan with the sautéed veggies. If the mixture seems a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help everything mingle nicely. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve: Dish the pasta into bowls and, if using, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil leaves. A simple, colourful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate!
Why It’s Your Springtime Hero:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into the hectic schedule of any parent.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, it’s a vitamin powerhouse that supports your family’s health.
- Versatile: Feel free to swap in or add any other spring veggies you have on hand. Asparagus, broad beans, or artichokes could be wonderful additions or substitutes.
- Kid-Friendly: The bright colours and mild flavours are great for encouraging little ones to eat their veggies.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of spring designed to fit seamlessly into the busy lives of London’s parents. It proves that quick, healthy, and delicious meals are possible, even when time is not on your side. So, here’s to enjoying those precious extra minutes of daylight with a bit less stress and a lot more flavour.
Enjoy!