The only reason I paid attention to Kashi Chicken Pasta Pomodoro is because of my free coupon. It’s been around awhile, but if you haven’t tried it yet, it’s time to get the scoop.

I was ticked off when I opened the package because it didn’t look like enough food to satisfy my monstrous hunger pangs (I turn into a creature when I get too hungry). But after the “zap and stir” of the microwave directions I got the most amazing aroma that made me forget I was bitchy. The blend of generous-sized zucchini, summer squash, red peppers, and onions smelled amazing, like it was cooked homemade in a real kitchen.

I could tell without reading the box that I was getting real whole grain pasta, much unlike the new line of Healthy Choice meals that makes the whole grain claim but serves, by appearances, what looks like regular old white flour pasta.

Now here comes the “Ping-Pang-Pow!” of exploding flavor with my first bite…but wait a minute, that didn’t happen. I added some salt to resurrect it from a flavor coma and it worked out pretty well. The visible basil spice and garlic bits also enhance the not-so-saucey concoction with hints of Parmesan, Chablis wine, and chicken stock. But what about the chicken?

It only comes with two or three pieces of dried out chicken (uh-huh), but at least they’re larger compared to other frozen meals.

Kashi Chicken Pasta Pomodoro is a hit despite its flaws. If it were presented to me on a plate I would never guess that it was frozen. It’s pretty good, but I’ll only buy it again if I can get past the sticker shock of paying $4.79. If you care to pay the price then give it a whirl.

Chicken Pomodoro Notes

• Price Paid: $4.79
• Calories 280
• Fat Calories 50
• Total Fat 6g
• Sodium 470mg
• Carbs 38g
• Fiber 6g
• Sugars 5g
• Protein 19g

Yum Up! to: All-natural, home cooked taste in a box. I’m impressed.

Yuck Down! to: Dry chicken … Frozen meals that cost out the wha-zoo.

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