Recipes: Pasta and Cheese

Prep time: 40 minutes (includes cooking time)

Ingredients:

8 oz. bowtie pasta, uncooked
2 1/2 c. skim milk
1 tbsp. butter
1/2 c. broccoli, chopped
1/2 c. red pepper, chopped
1/2 c. onion, diced
3 tbsp. all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. dry mustard
2 c. reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Add butter, broccoli, red pepper, and onion to a medium saucepan and sauté over medium heat. Add the milk and heat through.
Gradually whisk in flour and dry mustard. Simmer for 1 minute and whisk occasionally.
Remove the mixture from heat and stir in cheese until melted. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat the pasta.
Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch square baking dish and bake uncovered for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Serves: 6

Serving size: 1 1/3 cups

Nutritional analysis (per serving):

321 calories
19 g protein
10 g fat
7 g sat. fat
40 g carbohydrate
2 g fiber
34 mg cholesterol
346 mg sodium
376 mg calcium
2 mg iron
110 mcg folic acid

Nutritional analysis may vary depending on ingredient brands used.

This recipe is high in calcium and is a dish that other kids in the house can enjoy as well.

Note: This recipe is especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need to consume extra calories and eat a variety of nutritious foods to contribute to their baby's growth and development.