The kids helped me unload the groceries, falling on the clear package with excitement.
“What is it?” Elizabeth exclaimed.
“Ravioli.”
“It’s my favorite color,” she squealed. “I love it!”
Joseph picked up the second package. “Please tell me we can eat it!”
“Well,” I hedged enjoying this food begging role reversal.
“Please, Mama!” Joseph begged with wide eyes.
“Please, Mommy!” Elizabeth chimed in.
“Okay,” I said as if hesitating.
“Can we help you make it?”
“Sure!” I got the pot of water boiling and added a smidge of salt. Then, one by one, we slide the bright pasta into the water bath. When it was done, we tossed it with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
I sat at the table with the kids and waited for them to protest the filling. After all, I’ve been trying to get them to eat butternut squash for years. One bite and Elizabeth’s face beamed. “This is the best pasta ever!”
Joseph nodded as he shoved a second bite in his mouth. “It’s like candy pasta!” he said around a mouthful.
I smiled my secret smile and wondered if tomorrow’s green striped kale pasta will go over just as well.
Score one for Mama, zero for the picky eaters.
