Peanut Butter Pasta for Kids
A creamy, protein-packed, and kid-friendly pasta dish that combines savory peanut butter with a touch of sweetness for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients
- •12 ounces (340g) spaghetti or fusilli pasta
- •1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- •3 tablespoons soy sauce
- •1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- •1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- •1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- •1/2 cup warm water (to thin the sauce)
- •1/2 cup finely shredded carrots
- •1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
- •1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
- 2
While the pasta cooks, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a medium bowl until smooth.
- 3
Gradually add the warm water to the peanut butter mixture, whisking constantly until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
- 4
Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- 5
Return the pasta to the pot over low heat, add the peanut sauce and shredded carrots, and toss gently to coat.
- 6
If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until the desired creaminess is achieved.
- 7
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
💡 Chef tips
- For a protein boost, add cooked edamame or pan-seared tofu cubes to the pasta.
- If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, stir in an extra tablespoon of warm water before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; the sauce will thicken, so add a splash of water when reheating.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished dish should have a glossy, golden-brown coating on the pasta that smells nutty and savory, with a perfect balance of creamy texture and a slight sweet-and-salty finish.