Sunday, August 23, 2015

Veggies 'R Us!

Ah yes, as adults we know we need them but as kids we dread them (for the most part) but even though I do not have any kids myself, I see my friends struggle to get their kids to eat them. So I want to show you some tricks on how to get kids to enjoy veggies or at least try them. As a nurse I see all kinds of patients with different backgrounds- but the one thing that I can always teach is food and nutrition especially for chronic illnesses. With that said, I see how obesity in both adults and kids is probably the biggest problems that as Americans we face today. So why not take advantage and get your kids involved in the kitchen? Stop being lazy or scared!! Yes- I said that.. because it is the truth.

If we can engage kids early then we can change eating habits early and it then becomes engrained in them to make better choices as they venture off in school and social gatherings with other kids. We are the ones who can make it happen, because as they say- it all starts at home. Prior to becoming a nurse I obtained a degree in Hospitality Management. In the cooking classes I took, one thing always stood out. Colors and presentation will always prevail when you put a plate in front of people. That is it.. keep it simple, colorful and creative and I guarantee your little humans will have their curiosity going wild.

Quick Mini Pizzas
What you need:
Flatbread
Olive oil
Salt & Pepper
Spaghetti sauce or pizza sauce
Any variety of toppings:
Cherry tomatoes, spinach, ham, shredded mozzarella, pineapple chunks, sliced red bell peppers

How to make:
Spread a little of either sauce and let the kids add their own toppings. Allowing them to create their own dish will get them more eager to eat their masterpiece!
Bake for 3-5 minutes at 350 in a regular oven or use a toaster oven if you have one. Works just as good.
** You can substitute the flat bread for eggplant slices. Same concept but you have to bake the sliced eggplant first for about 10 minutes at 350 degrees with a little olive oil. Then top with whatever you like and broil for another 3-5 minutes to melt the cheese.





Fruit Skewers
What you need:
cubed or sliced- variety of fruits including: peaches, pineapple, kiwi, mango and strawberries.
Grill- safe skewers
1/2 cup apple jelly
Water

How to make:
Skew the fruit in no particular order. In a small bowl mix the apple jelly with a couple of tablespoons of water and brush the fruit with this mixture. Grill for 3 minutes on each side or until you start seeing the grill marks. Take them off the heat and brush with a little more of the apple jelly mixture. Serve with whipped cream
***This recipe is from The Pioneer Woman



Sushi with a twist
What you need:
White or wheat sliced bread
Rolling pin
Smooth peanut butter
Whipped cream cheese
Sour cream
Matchstick veggies: cucumber, carrots, celery

How to make:
Gently flatten the slices of bread with the rolling pin. Mix cream cheese with sour cream. Spread peanut butter or cream cheese & sour cream mix and line with a few pieces of the assorted veggies. Carefully roll and serve.
*** You can cut off the crusts of the bread prior to assembly to make it look prettier. This recipe is from Martha Stewart with my own spin on it.