Kid Kritics Approved - Healthy Foods for Kids

Identifying healthier foods that your family deserves,
and your kids will love!

 

Creamy Macaroni & Ranch by Nicole     Print this Recipe

Comments

"ENJOY!!!  It is kid friendly and quick." (Nicole, mom of 2) The Kid Kritics couldn't get enough of this!  Using the right Ranch Dressing is key to flavor and health which is why we recommend using the Simply Organic mix.

Photos

Equipment

2 saucepans, colander, mixing bowl

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

25-30 minutes

Number of Servings

5-6 or more depending on ages

Instructions

  1. Simply Organic Ranch Dressing Mix

    Follow preparation instructions (includes buttermilk). Let chill in refrigerator for at least 5 minutes.
  2. 1 lb frozen mixed vegetables

    Steam veggies according to package directions. Rinse veggies under cold water in a colander.
  3. 8 oz uncooked pasta, whole grain or gluten free (shape of your choice)

    Meanwhile, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions or until al dente. Drain pasta and rinse with cold water in a colander until completely cool or set aside to cool.
  4. 1/2 small red pepper, finely chopped

  5. 2 cups chicken, cooked and diced

    Use leftover or deli chicken. Place pasta, chicken, veggies and red pepper into a large bowl. Add prepared dressing and gently stir until everything is lightly coated. Serve chilled.

Options

Can also be served warm, just don't rinse the pasta & veggies in cold water.

 

 

PERFORMANCE RATING: 6/5

The Kid Kritics gobbled this up. Really – vegetables and all. This Ranch Dressing’s flavors and texture are so appealing that you should consider coating a variety of vegetables with it. The quick chicken trick is to go to the deli, ask for a one or two inch slice of an additive free chicken, take it home and cut it into little chunks. Now you have a quick ready meal-in-one for your family.

Needless to say, a 6/5 Performance Rating means your kids will be powered up with the recipe. Make a lot for lunch box leftovers and snacks. This recipe is an answered prayer for busy moms and dads. Your kids will be well feed and leave the table smiling!

Grocery List

  • Whole grain or gluten-free pasta, shape of choice
  • 1 lb frozen mixed vegetables
  • Small red pepper
  • Cooked chicken, leftover of chunks of deli
  • Simply Organic Ranch Dressing Mix
  • Buttermilk (for dressing)

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Kid Kritics Approved Featured Brands

Visit the co-branded pages of our featured manufacturers:

Annie's Homegrown|
Artisana|
Barbara's Bakery|
Cabot Creamery|
Crunchmaster|
Flamous Brands|
Good Health Natural Foods|
Greens+|
Hero Nutritionals|
Iceland Spring|
Joseph's Lite Cookies|
Lisanatti Foods|
Once Again|
Pamela's Products|
Plainville Farms|
Rudi's Gluten-Free Bakery|
Rudi's Organic Bakery|
Shady Maple Farms|
Shelton's|
Simply Organic|
Snyder's of Hanover|
Upfront Foods|
Vita Spelt|
Wholesome Sweeteners|
Wyman's of Maine