Pasta with Red Pepper Sauce

Mommy rating: ****
Baby rating: ***

This is super easy to make and its delicious!  This could easily become a family meal.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pasta (I ended up using about 1 cup because I didn't think this was enough)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 small leek, washed and chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1/2 small zucchini, chopped
• 4 Tbsp chopped tomatoes, canned without added salt
• 1/4 clove garlic (I used 1 clove)
• 1 tsp chopped parsley
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or basil (I used both)
• 1 Tbsp grated mild, hard cheese, such as Cheddar

Directions:

Cook the pasta in water, until soft, according to the instructions on the packet.  Drain well.  Heat the oil in a small skillet.  Add the leek and bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes to soften.   

Add the zucchini, canned tomatoes, garlic, and dried herbs, and simmer gently for 15 minutes. 

Blend to a smooth sauce with hand blender or in a food processor. 

Stir in the cooked pasta and mash witha fork to break the pasta into smaller pieces (not necessary for an older baby).  Stir in grated cheese until it melts (I will do this before serving).

*Taken from The Big Book of Recipes for Babies, Toddlers & Children*