Kids love pasta! Bowties make this simple pasta easy and delicious, while chicken, chickpeas, tomatoes and basil add nutrition and a fresh Mediterranean twist. For more recipes visit Sharethepasta.org

Recipe and photo courtesy of National Pasta Association

Historically, the tortillas are cut into strips and then fried. In this version, the finished soup is instead topped with an optional handful of whole grain tortilla chips, to mimic that traditional crunch and starchiness. The corn and pinto beans are an American Southwest twist we added, and the additional calories and fiber from these ingredients make this dish great for fueling a long day at school or work.

Oldways photo and recipe, courtesy of Kelly LeBlanc

Salad is the lunchtime staple we never tire of! Plus, fruit and dried fruit can add great flavor to salads. China meets the Southwest in this unusual fusion salad. Glistening black rice set off against the bright orange segments and avocado’s pale green gives the mixture striking visual appeal.

Recipe courtesy of Lorna Sass, author of “Whole Grains Every Day, Every Way.” Oldways photo