Whole Wheat Pasta with Hidden Veggie Tomato Sauce

Introduction

This creamy tomato sauce cleverly sneaks extra vitamins onto the plate and tastes wonderfully fruity. Short whole wheat pasta shapes, like fusilli, are easy for little hands to grab or pierce with a fork. It makes sharing meals at the family table a joy for everyone.

Ingredients

• 150 g whole wheat pasta (for example, fusilli or penne)
• 1 small carrot
• 1 small piece of celeriac (about 30 g)
• 1 small onion
• 1 clove of garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 400 g strained tomatoes (unsalted)
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil)
• A tiny pinch of salt and pepper (fine in moderation for children over 12 months)

Preparation

1. Peel the carrot, celeriac, onion, and garlic, and cut them into fine cubes.
2. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat and gently sauté the diced vegetables for about five minutes.
3. Add the strained tomatoes and the dried herbs.
4. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are very soft.
5. Meanwhile, cook the whole wheat pasta in lightly salted water according to the package instructions, then drain.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the tomato sauce until it forms a smooth, creamy texture.
7. Season the sauce with a tiny pinch of salt and pepper.
8. Mix the pasta with the sauce, let it cool on a plate, and always test the temperature before serving.

Variations & Tips

• Swap the veggies: Zucchini or bell peppers also work wonderfully in the sauce and introduce new flavor profiles.
• Storage: The finished sauce keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It also freezes beautifully in individual portions.
• For the whole family: Adults can easily spice up their own portions at the table with fresh chili, a bit more salt, and some grated Parmesan.
• Texture adjustment: For children who are just getting used to firmer foods, you can cut the cooked pasta into smaller pieces.

Allergy & Safety Information

This recipe contains gluten (pasta) and celery. Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts to monitor for any potential reactions. If you choose to add nuts as a topping, ensure they are finely ground to avoid a choking hazard. Honey remains unsafe during the first year, but is permitted after the first birthday. If you have any uncertainties about feeding or potential allergies, please consult your pediatrician.

Nutritional Information

Whole wheat pasta provides valuable fiber, which supports healthy digestion and keeps little tummies full. The hidden vegetables and tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, playing a key role in supporting the immune system. A splash of olive oil helps the body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins from the carrots perfectly.