Squash Mac ‘N Cheese

Squash as a pasta sauce base may sound unusual, but this is something community nutrition educator Dana Mealing, RDN, LDN, has been serving up for years— and it has yet to be rejected by picky eaters. This is a great way to make a rich, flavorful pasta sauce that is thick and creamy without adding extra saturated fat, and the bright orange color gives the illusion of being extra cheesy, making it irresistible to kids. This sauce is also great for smothering other veggies like broccoli and cauliflower. If you’re looking for a unique way to get more veggies in your diet this fall, you’ve found it! For an extra filling all-in-one meal, try using a pasta made from lentils or chickpeas!

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The Best Peas and Pasta

Peas are far more versatile than they’re given credit for. It’s likely you’re used to something like a pile of peas, topped with a little pat of salted butter, rolling away on your plate. But so much more can be done with peas! They can be braised, roasted or pureed into a hummus type dip or a creamy sauce base like this recipe. If you buy whole pea pods, they’re great as a raw snack, sliced and added to salads, or sauteed or even grilled. This recipe features a thick, creamy, garlicy sauce made from pureed peas. Peas are a good plant-based protein high in fiber and they’re an excellent addition to something like pasta. Top this with grilled chicken or shrimp and consider garnishing with some chopped sun-dried tomato to complete the meal.

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Spinach Stuffed Shells

This ricotta-and-spinach-stuffed shells recipe will become a family favorite and a great way to get the family to eat their spinach! For less calories, use part-skim milk ricotta and mozzarella. For more fiber use whole grain shells.
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Chicken Parmesan Casserole

This recipe is good comfort food for the cooler weather, and it’s a healthier twist on a classic. The use of whole wheat pasta increases the fiber and fullness. If you want to lessen the saturated fat and calories, replace with part-skim mozzarella.

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Greek Chicken Pasta

Pasta dishes are a quick weeknight meal, but we are often at a loss for creating something different. This Greek Chicken Pasta dish is so flavorful and, most importantly, simple to make. It uses the classic garlic and olive oil of many Greek dishes with the unique flavor of marinated artichokes and the freshness of lemon. Try whole wheat linguine to make it even healthier!

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