Looking for a festive and wholesome Valentine’s Day meal that’s both nutritious and fun? This pink beet pasta is the perfect dish for you and your little one. The vibrant color comes from beets, blended into a creamy sauce that’s both delicious and packed with nutrients. Paired with Carbe Diem pasta, which is high in protein and fiber but low in carbs and calories, this dish is a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without the guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally Pink: No artificial colors here—just wholesome beets.

• Nutritious & Satisfying: The combination of Carbe Diem pasta, ricotta, and Parmesan makes this dish high in protein and fiber.

• Kid-Approved: The fun color and creamy texture make it appealing to little ones.

• Quick & Easy: With just a few ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.

How to Make Pink Beet Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 box of Carbe Diem elbow pasta

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• ½ diced onion

• 1 can of beets (drained)

• ½ cup ricotta cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Boil the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the aromatics: In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the canned beets and cook for a few minutes until well coated.

3. Blend the sauce: Transfer the beet mixture to a blender or food processor. Add ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

4. Combine: Pour the beet sauce over the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated.

5. Serve with heart-shaped rolls: For a cute Valentine’s Day touch, bake biscuit dough in a heart-shaped pan until golden brown.

FAQ

1. Can I use fresh beets instead of canned?

Yes! Roast or boil fresh beets until tender, then blend them into the sauce. Roasting brings out a sweeter, more concentrated flavor.

2. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute it with cottage cheese, cream cheese, or even Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-rich alternative.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap out the ricotta and Parmesan for dairy-free alternatives or use blended cashews for a creamy, plant-based sauce.

4. Will my kids like the taste of beets?

Beets have a naturally sweet, earthy flavor, which blends well with the creamy cheese and pasta. If your little one is new to beets, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

6. Can I freeze the beet sauce?

Yes! Freeze the sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before tossing with fresh pasta.

7. What other pasta shapes work well with this sauce?

While I used Carbe Diem elbow pasta, you can also try penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Any shape that holds sauce well will work!

8. What can I serve with pink beet pasta?

This dish pairs perfectly with heart-shaped rolls, a simple side salad, or roasted vegetables.

9. How can I make this meal more filling?

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein. You can also mix in sautéed spinach or kale for added greens.

10. Can I make this in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the beet sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

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