At Story House Early Learning, mealtimes are more than just food on a plate; they’re moments of comfort, discovery, and full tummies. Behind the scenes at our Black Rock centre, our talented Chef Magarita has been serving up nutritious, delicious meals with heart.
With a deep passion for creating child-friendly meals packed with goodness, Chef Margarita has perfected dishes that our little learners genuinely look forward to. Curious what’s on the menu?
Today, we’re sharing one of these family favourites straight from Chef Margarita’s kitchen, their much-loved Veggie-Loaded Spaghetti Bolognese recipe. Packed with nutrients and hidden veg, this one’s a hit at lunchtime and perfect for the whole family to recreate at home.
Chef Margarita’s Veggie-Loaded Spaghetti Bolognese
Ingredients
- 500 g spaghetti (or small pasta like penne or spirals for younger children)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 500 g lean beef mince
- 1 small brown onion, finely chopped
- 1 tin brown lentils (rinsed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 grated zucchini
- 1 grated carrot
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 400 g tin crushed tomatoes
- 500 ml tomato passata (tomato puree)
- 1 low-salt beef or veggie stock cube
- A pinch of salt and pepper (optional)
- Grated mild cheddar or parmesan to serve
Method
- Cook the pasta according to the packet directions. Drain and set aside. (Tip: Cut spaghetti into smaller strands for toddlers.)
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the mince and cook for 4–5 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
- Add the onion and lentils, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens. Then add garlic and stir for another minute.
- Stir in the grated zucchini and carrot, followed by the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and passata.
- Crumble in the stock cube, stir well, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the veggies are soft.
- Serve the sauce over the pasta and top with a little grated cheese. (Tip: Let children sprinkle the cheese themselves for a fun mealtime task!)
Whether it’s their first taste of Spaghetti Bolognese or a regular favourite, this dish is always a winner at Story House. It’s hearty, wholesome, and made with love, just how Chef Margarita likes it.
Stay tuned for more recipes and behind-the-scenes moments from our incredible team of educators, carers, and chefs.
