Let’s face it: it’s never too early to foster culinary creativity in kids. Whether you’re baking homemade cookies with toddlers, involving kids in family meal prep, or getting teens to take the initiative come meal time, learning to cook is an important milestone in life. Sure, sometimes teens can be reluctant to try new things, but teaching them to cook their favourite meals is a great way to encourage autonomy and boost their self-esteem. At Olivieri®, we believe there’s no better place to start than with pasta meals. Now let’s get into this.
Why Choose Pasta?
Stop for a moment to think about what dishes your teens ask you for most frequently. We’re pretty sure pasta dishes rank fairly high on that list. Pasta has long been a firm favourite among teens due to its high-energy profile, satisfying texture, and versatility. You can cook pasta with any number of flavour combos, and that’s what makes it the perfect launch pad for teens embarking on life’s culinary journey.
Simple Snacks to Get them Started
As teens grow, so too does their appetite; that’s why you’ve got to seize the moment and harness their motivation to make the food they crave. These Fresh Tomato and Crostini are a delicious snack with very little prep required. What’s more, when they put it in the oven, the aromas that fill the kitchen will arouse feelings of pride and anticipation.
Gnocchi: The Perfect Ingredient for Beginners
You may be wondering: what makes gnocchi the perfect ingredient to help get teens started? Well, first of all, it couldn’t be easier to make. Whether it’s boiled or fried in the skillet, gnocchi takes less than 5 minutes to prepare, and pairs perfectly with a wide variety of ingredients. This Skillet Gnocchi Carbonara is a dish they’ll no doubt be familiar with and is quick and easy to make. Likewise, these Skillet Gnocchi Nachos are a crowdpleasing favourite teens can rustle up in just 15 minutes.
Alternatively, for the teens who like to try out new flavours, we recommend our Skillet Gnocchi Vegan Buddha Bowl. Packed with delicious ingredients like sweet potato, baby spinach, grape tomatoes, chickpeas, and shredded red cabbage, this vegan and vegetarian-friendly dish is ideal for teens who already enjoy bold flavours and getting creative in the kitchen.
Classic Pasta Dishes They’ll Know and Love
One way to get teens excited about cooking is to teach them the dishes they already know and love, and that’s where this Angel Hair and Meatballs with Tomato Basil Sauce comes in. A simple and satisfying dish, it requires only three ingredients and 10 minutes of their time. What’s more, our easy-to-follow recipe will take them through the process in 5 simple steps.
Cannelloni in the Oven
The oven is an essential tool for budding young chefs. It’s easy to use and allows them to cook meals without having to monitor its progress on the stove. This Chicken & Prosciutto Cannelloni in Rosé Sauce recipe calls for just 5 ingredients and is ready in 20 minutes thanks to the convenience of Olivieri® Chicken & Prosciutto Cannelloni
Engaging Teens in Cooking
Getting teens involved in the kitchen is an excellent way to build essential skills. Practical cooking experiences foster an appreciation for food and encourage healthy habits. Engaging in culinary tasks also helps strengthen family bonds.
Learning and Creativity
Cooking is not just about following recipes; it’s a chance for teens to express themselves and explore their creativity. By experimenting with different ingredients and flavours, they can create unique dishes tailored to their tastes. Some ways to enhance learning and creativity in the kitchen include:
- Allowing teens to choose recipes that interest them.
- Encouraging them to adjust seasonings or add personal touches.
- Exploring various cuisines to broaden their culinary horizons.
Responsibility and Autonomy
When teens take part in meal preparation, they develop not only their cooking skills but also a sense of responsibility. This involvement can lead to greater independence and confidence in the kitchen. Key aspects include:
- Assigning them specific tasks to manage independently.
- Teaching them about proper kitchen safety and cleanliness.
- Encouraging them to plan meals and grocery lists.
This sense of ownership in meal preparation can motivate teens to make healthier choices and enjoy the process of cooking.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Culinary Whizzes
Now that you’ve got plenty of inspiration for meals to cook with teens, it’s time to get together and start brainstorming ideas. For more expert advice and easy-to-make recipes, make sure to visit the Olivieri® Kitchen.