It’s that time of year again! With March just around the corner, it’s time to start planning for Spring break with the kids. Having braved another winter, it’s the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with loved ones. And what brings families together better than some good old-fashioned home-cooked food? That’s why Olivieri® is here to guide you through the best pasta dishes to satisfy the young ones this March Break. From mouthwatering meatball dishes to savoury dishes with bacon and cheese, we’ve got something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into some delicious pasta recipes.
Best Bacon and Pasta Dishes
Few ingredients are as popular in Canada as bacon. Versatile and flavourful, it works wonders in a wide variety of dishes. What’s more, if you throw a little cheese on top, you’ve got one of the most popular flavour pairings in the history of cooking! This March break, how about kick-starting the day with a hearty breakfast? This Loaded Bacon and Egg Breakfast Skillet Gnocchi is guaranteed to put a smile on the face of everyone first thing in the morning.
Craving bacon and cheese for lunch? Why not treat your family to a dish that stands out from the pack? We’re talking about Chicken Bacon Cheese Sacchettini Basil & Cheese Pesto. Made with Olivieri® Chicken & Bacon Sacchettini, this 5-minute recipe packs texture and flavour into every bite. Comfort food simply doesn’t get better than this!
Crowd-pleasing Classics
One foolproof way to celebrate March break is to serve up some family favourites come mealtime, and this Angel Hair Meatball Marinara is certainly that. Made with Olivieri® Angel Hair Nested Pasta, meatballs, and Olivieri®’s delicious Chunky Tomato & Basil Sauce, this easy-to-make recipe has long been a staple of Canadian home cooking.
Equally crowd-pleasing and delicious is our Old-Fashioned Lasagna recipe. Popular among kids and grown-ups alike, this oven classic is a safe bet for lunch or dinner.
Cozy Meals for March
If you find there’s still a chill in the air, then don’t fret. We’ve got warm and comforting meals that will keep your family energized all through March break. This Mama’s Tortellini Soup recipe is sure to take the edge off of the winter chill. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s a hearty soup recipe for all occasions.
Alternatively, this Skillet Gnocchi Carbonara boasts the winning combo of Olivieri® Classic Alfredo Sauce and Olivieri® Skillet Classic Gnocchi, resulting in a creamy and delicious meal for all the family.
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Pasta Salad Recipes with Wide Appeal
Let’s face it: enticing kids and teens to eat more salads and greens can be tricky. One way to sweeten the deal for them, however, is to use a kid-friendly ingredient as the base. Yes, you’ve guessed it: we’re talking about pasta. Pasta salads are a terrific way to combine the comforting and familiar texture of one of the most universally loved ingredients in the world with fresh and vibrant veggies. This Greek Salad Tortellini is bursting with flavour and nutrients. Made with cucumber, pepper, black olives, and feta cheese, all served on a bed of Olivieri® 3 Formaggi Rainbow Tortellini, this enticing salad dish is a tasty way to up your family’s veggie intake.
For a salad recipe with a sweet twist, try this Lemon Maple Skillet Gnocchi Salad. Made with baby greens, Olivieri® Basil Pesto and Italian Mozzarella Skillet Gnocchi, sliced pear, red onions, and dijon mustard, its sweetness comes from the addition of maple syrup. Simply put, the combination of gnocchi and our delightful salad dressing makes this dish appealing to people of all ages.
Getting the Whole Family Involved
Creativity in the kitchen can transform an average afternoon’s cooking into an exciting culinary adventure. Engaging children in the cooking process allows them to express their individuality and explore new ideas. Here are some ways to encourage creativity while preparing pasta dishes.
Creating a space where every idea is welcomed fosters an environment of experimentation. Kids should be encouraged to suggest their own twists on classic dishes, such as adding unexpected ingredients or trying new cooking methods. This approach nurtures their culinary skills while keeping the process fun and interesting.
Furthermore, involving children in meal planning can spark excitement for the dishes they will prepare. This empowers them to take ownership of their cooking experience. Encourage them to draw inspiration from family traditions or cuisines they find intriguing, broadening their culinary horizons.
Documenting their culinary journey can also be a fun activity. Kids can take photos of their creations or keep a cooking journal. This allows them to reflect on their experiences and share them with family and friends, reinforcing their confidence in the kitchen.
Whatever you decide to serve this March break, make it one to remember. Create lasting memories with the meals you make. And remember, when it comes time to get inspired, you can always drop by to see what’s cooking in our kitchen.