Family Dinner Idea – Build Your Own Pasta Bar

A simple and fun family dinner idea, this Build Your Own Pasta bar is a healthy and easy way to connect with your family around the dinner table.

Focusing on Family Meals

I am the type of person that really likes sticking to a routine. It calms me to make lists and try and follow certain order throughout the week.

Dan (my husband) on the other hand, hates routine. He says it makes him feel old. I also think it has to do with the fact that he never has any clue what time of day it is, even though he always wears a watch. It could be 5pm and he is shocked it isn’t 3 o’clock.

In an effort to find some calm during the hectic weeknights, I am focusing on more family meals. Sitting down as a family at dinner time is a great time to catch up, find out what’s going on with my kids at school and just spend quality time together. I also find that family meals encourage my kids to eat a bit better and try new things.

I also want to point out that everyone’s “family” is different. Enjoying a family meal might mean sitting down for a few minutes to have a snack together, enjoy a cup of coffee with a loved one or just grab a slice of pizza with friends. Simply put, to me it just means sharing a meal/beverage/snack with someone you care about to check in and make that social connection.

An Easy Family Dinner Idea

When it comes to a family friendly dinner, for me it has to be –

• simple to put together
• easy to customize
• budget friendly

That’s why I tend to lean towards Sheet Pan Dinners, Crock Pot Meals that I can prep in advance, or “Build Your Own” style meals like this Build Your Own Burrito Meal Idea.

Build Your Own Pasta Bar

My whole family loves pasta but we all prefer different kinds. The kids love bowtie pasta with spaghetti sauce. I love anything with pesto and Dan likes it spicy.

This Build Your Own Pasta dinner idea is a great way to let everyone make the pasta they prefer.

I typically make 2 different kinds of noodles so there is a little variety. Then just grab a couple of your favorite sauces. Spaghetti Sauce is a must have for my little ones but other options include pesto (this Kale Cashew Pesto is one of my favorites), alfredo, butternut squash pasta sauce, or even just olive oil with a bit of red pepper flakes.

Then the fun part….pasta toppings! Completely customizable to your likes, what’s in season, what fits into your budget, etc. Some ideas include –

• meatballs
• shrimp
• sautéed veggies
• parmesan cheese
• fresh tomatoes
• basil
• olives
• capers
• sardines
• grilled chicken
• pine nuts
• sunflower seeds
• mushrooms

I pick a few toppings, place them in little bowls and then just have everyone serve themselves.

What’s one of your favorite meals to enjoy with others?