Let’s face it. When children hear the word “healthy” to describe food, they automatically think it’s not going to taste good. Maybe it’s about time to show the little ones how nutritious ingredients like tofu, broccoli and oatmeal can be used to make delicious snacks.
Here are some recipes that are simple enough for kids to help mom make, or even make on their own.
Crispy is the magic word when it comes to picky eaters. Tofu is one ingredient that can be made yummy (and crispy!) very easily. The fact that it’s a great source of protein and contains nine of the essential amino acids is just a plus. Follow these six steps and involve the young ones by letting them help measure and bread their own cut of tofu.
2 blocks extra-firm tofu
3 eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
2/3 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
¾ cup mayonnaise
3 cloves garlic
2 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Eating broccoli is a nightmare for most kids, and honestly, this super veggie doesn’t deserve such bad rep considering the amount of vitamins it packs within a small serving. With the help of cheese, cheese, and more cheese, the little ones should be able to forget the green “monster” they often fear. Kids can use their hands and help shape the broccoli to bite-sized tots.
1 bag frozen broccoli or about 300 grams fresh broccoli
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 ½ cup shredded cheddar
½ cup grated parmesan
Salt and pepper to taste
One of the most effective ways to get kids to eat their veggies is to hide it in their food. This recipe does just that. With the cauliflower sharing the same color as the cheese sauce, it will visually go undetected, making your kids absorb all that fiber without them even knowing it. This recipe may take a little bit more work, but the kids can help puree the cauliflower to save Mom a step.
500 grams cauliflower (cut into florets)
2 cups elbow macaroni pasta
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Working from home does not necessarily mean Moms have more time on their hands. In fact, it’s even more challenging playing the role of “boss” both at the work and at home. This busy mom’s oatmeal recipe is packed with nutrients, and is a great go-to to get some goodness into the kids’ tummy before the day starts.
1 ½ frozen bananas
1 cup milk
½ cup oats
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 ½ tablespoon honey
We always hear the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and this recipe will help do just that. Let the doctors focus on their frontline battle while the rest of us think of fun, creative ways to bring healthy fruits on the dining table. Spend a crafty afternoon with the kiddos and allow them to decorate their own donut apples. Another good news? Never again will they have to choose between an apple and a donut.
3 apples
1 ½ cups cream cheese, softened
½ cup melted chocolate
2 teaspoon honey
1 drop pink food coloring
1 drop blue food coloring
Sprinkles for decorating
From snacks to mains to desserts, nothing excites the whole family better than yummy treats that everyone can enjoy. It becomes even more exciting for the kids when they realize that they can be involved in the process of making them. So spend some time with the little ones and teach them these recipes that they may keep with them for many years to come.
