SESAME NOODLES WITH BEEF AND SPINACH

This has got to be the definition of a family- and kid-friendly, one pot meal—pasta, protein and almost-under-the-radar vegetables.  Asian noodles come in all types, but spaghetti will work too.  The punchy sauce can be adjusted so flavors suit taste—especially the chili heat!  And the whole meal can be on the table in about 30 minutes.

• 8 oz noodles
• 1/4 cup tamari or soy sauce
• A little grated ginger, to taste
• 2 tblsp rice vinegar
• 1 tblsp honey
• 1 tblsp hoisin sauce
• 2 tsps cornstarch
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• A little Asian chili-garlic sauce, if using
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 tblsps toasted sesame oil
• A little salt and ground black pepper
• 8 oz fresh baby spinach
• Toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions for garnish

Cook the noodles according to package directions in salted water—then drain, rinse and set aside to cool.  Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl, including one tablsp of oil, except spinach and garnishes, and whisk until well combined.  Heat the second  tblsp of oil and cook beef at medium high, separating into pieces.  Add salt and pepper and cook until browned.  Reduce heat and add spinach, a little at a time, stirring to combine with meat.  Whisk the sauce again and add to meat and spinach, tossing well—add noodles and continue tossing until noodles are warm.  Add sesame seed and scallion garnishes.

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