This quick and easy meal is great for busy school nights. You can use spinach, green beans, cooked carrots, or any leftover vegetables you have at home.
Published August 16, 2026
Contributed by: Jennifer Bier, MS, RD, LD Manager | Clinical Dietician
Weeknight Pasta
This quick and easy meal is great for busy school nights. You can use spinach, green beans, cooked carrots, or any leftover vegetables you have at home.
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat penne or rotini pasta
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or 1 can white beans, drained
- 4 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta following the directions on the package. Drain when done.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- If using minced garlic, cook it in the oil for about 1 minute until lightly golden. If using garlic powder, add it now. Add the red pepper flakes if desired.
- Add the spinach and cook until it becomes soft.
- Add the chicken broth and the chicken or beans. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the cooked pasta and stir everything together.
- Divide into 4 servings and top with Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Tip:
Try adding green beans, carrots, or other cooked vegetables for extra color and nutrition.
Tips for picky eaters:
- Leave out the red pepper flakes to keep the recipe mild.
- Cut the spinach into smaller pieces so it blends into the pasta.
- Use extra Parmesan cheese if your child enjoys cheesy flavors.
- Let kids choose their favorite vegetables to add.
- Serve with fruit or a side salad for a balanced meal.
This recipe is a good way to add vegetables and protein to a meal while still serving a familiar favorite like pasta. This recipe is kid-friendly because it has mild flavors, familiar ingredients, and a soft texture that many children enjoy. The pasta, chicken, beans, and Parmesan cheese make it filling and easy to eat.
