Simple Lasagna Your Kids Will Love

Skillet Lasagna

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1-1/2 cups mini lasagna noodles or other pasta
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms
• 2 cups red pasta sauce
• 1/3 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella

Instructions:

1. In a Dutch oven, combine 1 lb lean ground beef, 1/4 cup chopped onions, and 1/2 cup chopped carrots. Cook over medium-high heat for about 6 minutes or until the beef is no longer pink.
2. Drain the mixture.
3. Stir in 1-1/2 cups mini lasagna noodles or other pasta.
4. Add 1-1/2 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms, and 2 cups red pasta sauce.
5. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
7. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a chopped lettuce salad topped with ranch dressing.
• Serve a combination of red and green grapes for a simple dessert.

Yields: 4 servings

Broccoli Chicken Vegetable Sauté

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 chicken breast halves
• 1 cup cut-up broccoli
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup cream of broccoli soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook the chicken in 1 tablespoon of olive oil for 10 minutes or until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken and keep it warm.
2. In the same skillet, cook the broccoli, carrots, and mushrooms for 5 minutes, stirring often.
3. Add the soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Serve over rice or pasta.

Yields: 4 servings

Quick Dessert: Chocolate Banana Ice Cream (with a twist)

Ingredients:

• 4 bananas, peeled
• 4 squares Baker’s all-natural unsweetened chocolate
• 3 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the bananas.
2. Melt the chocolate with water in the top of a double boiler.
3. Add the melted chocolate and water to the mashed bananas.
4. Stir the ingredients together.
5. Freeze the mixture before serving.

Note:

This is a "No sugar" recipe, making it a healthier dessert option.

Interesting Stats

• According to the USDA, the average American consumes about 23 pounds of pasta annually.
• A study by the American Heart Association found that meals prepared at home are generally healthier and lower in calories compared to restaurant meals.
• The inclusion of vegetables like carrots and broccoli in meals can significantly boost the intake of essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to better overall health.

By incorporating these easy and nutritious recipes into your meal plan, you can ensure that your family enjoys delicious, wholesome meals even on the busiest days.