Veggie Packed Spaghetti

To keep your Smart Start Meals fresh, nutritious, and delicious, follow these simple storage and reheating guidelines:

1. Refrigeration (For Meals to be Eaten Within 2-3 Days)

• Store meals in an airtight container in the refrigerator at or below 5°C.
• Keep fresh fruits and snacks in separate compartments to maintain their texture.
• Consume meals within 48-72 hours for the best taste and nutritional quality.

2. Freezing (For Longer Storage Up to 2 Weeks)

• If you won’t be eating a meal within 3 days, freeze it to maintain freshness.
• Wrap meal containers securely or use freezer-safe bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Label meals with the date of storage to keep track of freshness.
• Do not freeze fresh fruit—store it separately and consume fresh.

3. Reheating Instructions

For best taste and safety:

• Microwave: Reheat refrigerated meals on medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan on low-medium heat for 3-5 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Oven: Warm in a preheated oven (180°C) for 10 minutes if using oven-safe containers.
• Avoid overheating to preserve nutrients and texture.

4. Keeping Snacks & Fruits Fresh

• Store muffins, oat bars, and granola-based snacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerate yogurt-based snacks and dips for up to 5 days.
• Keep fresh-cut fruit in sealed containers and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

By following these storage tips, you’ll ensure that every Smart Start Meal stays fresh, flavorful, and packed with nutrition for your child’s best school day yet! 

1. Spaghetti with Tomato-Based Sauce, Carrots, Spinach & Lentils (~1 cup, ~250g total)

🔹 Calories: ~350-400 kcal
🔹 Carbohydrates: ~65-70g
🔹 Protein: ~15-18g
🔹 Fats: ~5-8g
🔹 Fiber: ~7-10g
🔹 Key Nutrients:

• Plant-Based Protein & Iron (from lentils – supports muscle growth & brain function)
• Vitamin A & C (from carrots & spinach – boosts immune health & vision)
• Antioxidants & Lycopene (from tomato sauce – supports heart health)
• Whole Grains for Sustained Energy (from whole-wheat spaghetti if used)

2. Side: Cucumber Sticks (~1/2 cup, ~100g)

🔹 Calories: ~10-15 kcal
🔹 Carbohydrates: ~3g
🔹 Protein: ~0.5g
🔹 Fats: ~0g
🔹 Fiber: ~1g
🔹 Key Nutrients:

• Hydrating & Refreshing (high water content supports hydration)
• Vitamin K (supports bone health & blood clotting)
• Low-Calorie Crunchy Snack (great for digestion & gut health)

3. Snack: Peanut Butter & Honey Oat Balls (~2 small balls, ~50g total)

🔹 Calories: ~180-220 kcal
🔹 Carbohydrates: ~20-25g
🔹 Protein: ~5-7g
🔹 Fats: ~8-12g
🔹 Fiber: ~3-4g
🔹 Key Nutrients:

• Healthy Fats & Protein (from peanut butter – supports brain development)
• Natural Sweeteners for Energy (honey provides quick energy)
• Whole Grains & Fiber (from oats – aids digestion & keeps kids full)

Total Estimated Nutritional Value for the Full Meal (Spaghetti + Cucumber Sticks + Peanut Butter & Honey Oat Balls)

🔹 Calories: ~540-630 kcal
🔹 Carbohydrates: ~90-100g
🔹 Protein: ~20-25g
🔹 Fats: ~13-18g
🔹 Fiber: ~10-12g

🔹 Rich in:
✅ Plant-Based Protein, Fiber, Healthy Fats, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron & Whole Grains
✅ Balanced meal with complex carbs, protein, and healthy fats
✅ Perfect for sustained energy, focus, and overall well-being

This meal is hearty, nutrient-packed, and designed to keep kids energized and satisfied throughout the day!