Power Penne

Ingredients:

1 cup whole wheat pasta

1 cup vegetable or chicken broth

1 1/2 cups (15 oz can rinsed and drained) black beans

2 oz cold, cubed, cream cheese

1 lb frozen, thawed and drained spinach

1 cups halved cherry tomato(es)

Directions:

Cook pasta per package instructions. While pasta is cooking, heat large skillet over medium heat, add broth and beans, and simmer until beans are heated through, about 3 minutes. Stir in cream cheese and spinach. Return to simmer, stirring occasionally until creamy, about 5 minutes. Add cherry tomatoes, and cook until tomatoes are warm, about 2 minutes. In a large bowl, mix together cooked, drained pasta and sauce.

Yield: 5 cups
Serving Size: 3/4 cup provides 0.5 oz grain and 1/2 cup VEG for a 3-5 year old at lunch/supper.
Credit: Twist & Sprout Cookbook