Pasta that tastes like a lightened up and healthier version of pizza? Yes please! This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Barilla®. The opinions and text are all mine.

Gemelli with Tomato Sauce and Broccoli

Name: Gemelli with Tomato Sauce and Broccoli
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 8 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil; 1 1/2 cup broccoli (chopped into bite size pieces); 1 pouch Barilla Ready Pasta Gemelli; 1/2 cup tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 6 cherry size mozzarella balls (sliced in half or chopped into bite size pieces); salt and pepper (to taste)

I can’t believe it’s already September.

I also can’t believe I saw kids running past my building this morning and heading toward a yellow school bus.

I guess it’s official – school has begun. Next thing you know, we will be shopping for Halloween decorations!

If only summer could last forever…

For many parents, the stresses of dealing with additional back-to-school chores on top of an already busy schedule can feel overwhelming, even frustrating at times. Having to get up earlier in order to make sure the kids are fed, dressed and ready to go before the work day has begun can take a toll, both mentally and physically.

One way to help yourself ease into the new school year schedule is by cooking meals that require little prepping in the kitchen. Making something nutritious that takes less than 10 minutes means you can help your kids with their homework and still have time to relax before bed time.

Pasta always comes to mind when I think about quick and easy cooking. I always make extra and keep it in the fridge, so I don’t have to wait for the water to boil next time I want a bowl. Then recently I found out that Barilla offers all natural, fully cooked pasta that’s ready to eat in just 60 seconds. Bingo!

And in case you’re wondering if the texture of the pasta is good, the answer is yes!

So to help you navigate through the first back-to-school week, I’ve created a kid friendly Gemelli recipe that’s ready in 8 minutes from start to finish!

Only 6 ingredients are needed:

Barilla Ready Pasta Gemelli
Extra virgin olive oil
Broccoli
Tomato sauce
Dried oregano
Mozzarella

It’s a simple yet tasty tomato-based pasta dressed with crunchy broccoli bites and cheesy mozzarella. It’s one of those no fail recipes everyone loves. You can’t go wrong with pasta, veggies and a bit of cheese, it’s the ultimate food combination!

This is a quick recipe that can also be served as lunch or a mid-afternoon snack. It will keep in the fridge for up to 1-2 days and is good hot or cold, just like pizza!

So next time you find yourself strapped for time, give this recipe a try. Tasty and healthy meals don’t always have to take a long time to make and this dish proves it. I promise it will become one of your favorite quick recipes. You may even add it to your weekly meal rotation!

Did you like this Barilla Ready Pasta Quick Gemelli With Tomato Sauce And Broccoli Recipe? Are there changes you made that you would like to share? Share your tips and recommendations in the comments section below!