Mac and Cheese with Vegetables and Chicken
This is an awesome mixed meal for little ones who are ten to twelve months old. Serve with fruit for a complete and well-balanced meal. I still make this (unpureed) for the entire family to enjoy.
2 cups small-shaped pasta (such as stelline or orzo)
1⁄2 cup broccoli florets
1⁄2 cup chopped carrots
3 ounces cooked chicken breast
1⁄4 cup low-fat milk
2 ounces American cheese, shredded or chopped (Applegate brand recommended)
Cook pasta according to package directions and set aside. Place broccoli and carrots in a small saucepan and boil until very tender (about 15 minutes). Drain, reserving 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Transfer cooked vegetables and chicken to a food processor and pulse until well chopped; add a bit of reserved veggie cooking liquid if mixture appears too dry. Set aside.
Heat milk in a small saucepan until steamy. Add pasta and cheese; stir with a wooden spoon until well combined. Mix in chicken mixture and add more cooking liquid, if desired.
YIELD: about 3 cups
Nutrition Information per 1⁄2 Cup
Calories: 147, Total Fat: 4 grams, Saturated Fat: 2 grams, Carbohydrate: 18 grams, Sugars: 1 gram, Protein: 11 grams, Sodium: 157 milligrams, Cholesterol: 21 milligrams, Fiber: 2 grams, Vitamin D: 5 IU, Calcium: 78 milligrams, Iron: 0.6 milligrams