The need to eat healthy food choices during this time of a pandemic can’t be overly emphasized, especially for the kids who we can’t afford to see getting sick. But in reality, feeding the youngs with immunity-boosting foods like veggies can be a struggle at times. On the bright side, this can be the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen and serve something new along with familiar menu staples.
In this episode of OKS’ (Online Kapamilya Shows) “Caldero Files,” veteran actress Carmi Martin demonstrates how to incorporate the power-packed veggie, squash, with kids’ all-time favorite spaghetti. Perfect for picky-eaters!
This recipe is packed with health benefits not only for the kiddos but for adults as well because of the squash’s antioxidant properties. Squash is also rich in potassium, fiber, folate and Vitamins A, B6, and C to name a few. Carmi shared that her holistic approach to keeping a youthful glow includes doing exercises, keeping the mind at peace, and eating right. So, here is the gorgeous Tita of Manila’s yummy and hearty treat called “Kalabasa Chicken Spaghetti.”
INGREDIENTS:
400g cooked spaghetti pasta, al dente
2 tbsp. butter
3 tbsp. olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, minced
100g cream cheese
¼ cup parmesan cheese
1 cup all-purpose cream
300g chicken breast, fillet
2 cups squash, cut into cubes
2 cups water
2 tsp dried thyme
salt and pepper
PROCEDURES:
- Pour the water on a pot, followed by the chicken breast. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Boil the chicken breast for eight minutes.
- Once boiled, take the chicken breast and wait until cool.
- Chop the chicken breast into smaller pieces or according to desired shape. Set aside.
- Melt the butter in a pan.
- Add the olive oil and garlic.
- Once the garlic is cooked, add the squash. Stir for at least 3 minutes.
- Pour the chicken broth. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let it simmer for around 3 minutes.
- Once fully tender, take the squash from the pan. Mash until smooth.
- Add the mashed squash in the same pan, followed by cream cheese and all-purpose cream.
- Taste with salt and pepper.
- Boil for about a minute or until desired consistency.
- Add the thyme, then the pasta.
- Add the chopped chicken and parmesan cheese. Blend well.
- Serve with chunks of chicken breast on top for an extra IG-worthy appeal!
They say that mothers know best, so when Carmi’s beautiful Mommy Chiquita gave her culinary chops a nod at first taste, we are definitely buying the verdict.
Aside from spending time with her mom, Carmi also enjoys being a fur parent to her four cutesy and truly adorable dogs. She introduces them one by one, starting off with the smooch-loving Happy. The brood also includes Bela who‘s so into belly rubs. According to scientific studies, a belly rub signifies a dog’s sense of trust to his favorite ‘hooman.’ Carmi also has the chatty Buchian, and the 12 year-old Chloe Marie imported from Las Vegas.
In-between chopping and cooking, Carmi also talked about her deep spirituality. The ageless actress starts the day with prayers and she loves sharing devotionals on her social media accounts.
Don’t fail to watch “Caldero Files” on OKS.abs-cbn.com every Thursday 12nn.