This yummy meal has been a staple for me since college. It has evolved over the years, but is super quick and is made up of ingredients I almost always have on hand. It makes a great quick lunch on days that we don’t have leftovers. I love that it is easy to make just one serving, but it can easily be multiplied to make enough for a group. It can be made ahead, portioned, and stored in the freezer in place of store bought frozen entrees, but is much healthier and cheaper!

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Ingredients (for one serving…multiply as needed):

  • Whole Wheat Rotini (or other pasta) – 3/4 cup dry
  • Frozen Broccoli (or other veggies) – 2 cups
  • Black Beans – 1/2 cup
  • Butter – 1/2 tbsp
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – 1/4 cup
  • Black Pepper
  • Smoked Paprika
  • Garlic Salt
  • Red Pepper Flakes

Process:

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
  2. While pasta is cooking, add frozen vegetables and black beans to a large microwave safe bowl (you want to choose one large enough to add your other ingredients to. Microwave until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add butter, cheese, and seasonings to taste. I don’t measure my seasonings, but sprinkle a little of each on top (about equal parts of all seasonings).
  4. When pasta has finished cooking, drain, and then add to other ingredients.
  5. Stir together. If butter and cheese do not melt completely you can microwave for another 30 seconds (don’t overcook…the cheese will get stringy).

That’s it! Lots of veggies in a super easy meal. It is also Baby Led Weaning friendly and Little Lion approved

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 459,  Carbohydrates: 68 grams, Fat:12 grams, Protein: 27 grams