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- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 2 cups swanson® chicken broth or swanson® certified organic chicken broth or swanson® natural goodness® chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon italian seasoning, crushed
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3/4 cup short tube-shaped ditalini pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can white kidney beans (cannellini), undrained
- Carbohydrate 41.6
- Cholesterol 2
- Fat 4.7
- Protein 8.9
- Sodium 883
- Calories 241 calories;
Step-by-step
- Heat the oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the celery, carrots, onion and garlic until they're tender.
- Stir the broth, Italian seasoning and tomatoes in the skillet. Heat to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the pasta and beans and cook for 5 minutes.
- Place half of the broth mixture into a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until smooth.
- Pour the pureed mixture into the skillet. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is hot.
My Simple Weeknight Pasta: A Busy Mom's Go-To Recipe
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding quick, healthy, and delicious meals that don't require a culinary degree is constantly on my mind. That's where this simple pasta recipe comes in – a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It's surprisingly flavorful and comes together in under 30 minutes. No fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques, just pure comfort food.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. I often adjust it based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick, other times I throw in some spinach for extra nutrients. My kids, picky eaters as they are, actually love this dish! The creamy texture from the blended portion adds a richness that satisfies even the most discerning palates. It's a perfect example of how a simple meal can be both satisfying and impressive without requiring hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is not just for weeknights; it's perfect for those days when you're simply too tired to think about cooking. The ingredients are readily available at any grocery store, and the preparation is minimal. It's the kind of meal that makes you feel good – both physically and mentally. The hearty vegetables provide a good source of fiber, the beans add protein, and the pasta gives that comforting carb satisfaction. It’s a balanced meal that's kind to both my body and my busy schedule.
Beyond the Recipe: Embracing Simplicity
I think a lot of us, especially women, put so much pressure on ourselves to create elaborate, Instagram-worthy meals. But the truth is, simple food can be just as satisfying, and often much more manageable in our busy lives. This pasta recipe is a testament to that philosophy. It's a celebration of straightforward cooking, proving that deliciousness doesn't have to be complicated.
It’s about finding joy in the process of cooking, not just in the finished product. It’s about making the most of simple ingredients, transforming them into something nourishing and delightful. It’s about cherishing the time spent with my family, sharing a meal that's both healthy and heartwarming.
So next time you're short on time but long on hunger, reach for this recipe. It's a reliable friend in the kitchen, always ready to provide a comforting and delicious meal. And remember, even the simplest recipes can be extraordinary when prepared with love and a little bit of heart.
Tips and Variations:
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- If you don't have a blender, you can roughly mash half of the mixture with a fork.
Enjoy! Let me know what you think in the comments below.
