When Barilla Plus approached me with a challenge: make a simple pasta dish using Barilla Plus pasta, which is higher in protein and fiber but just as delicious as traditional pasta, I knew right away what I would make.

It’s my kids’ favorite pasta dish – a simple, yet delicious mix of textures and flavors. Wholesome and pleasantly garlicky, this olive oil pasta is by far better than the bland, limp, overcooked buttered pasta typically served to kids in restaurants, and despite being more complex in flavor, kids of all ages love it.

I like to make an entire package, because it keeps well in the fridge and they love it in their lunch boxes too, eaten at room temperature. Needless to say, this dish is excellent for adults too, though when I serve it to adults I like to sprinkle chopped Italian parsley and grated Parmesan on top for some added complexity and flavor.

Feel like making your own Barilla Plus creation? Barilla is offering 2 assorted boxes of Barilla Plus pasta, and a $25 gift card, to one of my readers. If you’re interested, please fill the form below, indicating “Barilla Plus giveaway” in the subject line. USA addresses only please, ages 18 and up. Winner will be chosen using random.org. Giveaway will close tonight, 9/27/12, at 7pm PDT. –> Giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner, Shelly R. I have emailed you.
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