We’ve put together a few alternatives to try out perhaps at the weekends when you have more time to get the kids on board. And although the recipes are simple to create, the difficult part is getting your children committed; perhaps requiring a few attempts to get them to try the different tastes.
Superfoods and salads are not the answer. Sticking to what they know and like but cooking up a healthy option is. This could be by replacing sugar based ingredients with yogurt or making savoury foods from scratch so that you know exactly what’s going onto the plate. Here are some simple but effective recipes to try out…
Carrot Fries
Sweet potato fries are all the rage at the moment as a healthy change from eating white potato fried chips. However, have you ever thought of using other veggie options? Carrots seem to be a favourite amongst many kids because of their sweet flavour, so try carrot chips for a fun sneaky way to get your kids eating more veg.
Simply cut into the shape of fries, use just one tablespoon of olive oil, a sprinkling of salt and two tablespoons of chopped mint for extra flavour. Pop them onto a non-stick baking tray and place into the oven until roasted. Accompany with hummus (packed with protein and fibre) or a chive dip as a further alternative to ketchup which is full of sugar or corn syrup.
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Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Sometimes, when you are rushed for time, it’s quick and easy to throw some frozen chicken nuggets into the oven which is almost guaranteed to please the kids.However, it’s just as simple making your own chicken bites; just grill chicken breasts and cut into fun shapes or strips to make eating your healthy alternative enjoyable for the kids.
Plus, this way you know there are no extra additives from mass produced, frozen options from the supermarket.
Healthy Crisps? Yes, Healthy Crisps
What kids doesn’t like crisps? With this healthy alternative, you won’t have to worry about their frequent intake. Sodium heavy crisps are unhealthy for the whole family, so although they are great for movie night, a yummy replacement is popcorn without the butter, or sweet potato thins. If you want to go the extra mile and love your superfoods, try kale chips.
To make kale chips, cut the kale into small bite sizes and toss into some canola or olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and roast in the oven.
Another much loved option are fried bananas, slice into thin portions, add a spray of sunflower oil and pan fry until golden.
Banana Ice-cream
It’s easy to fall into the trap of a cheeky dessert for the family every now and then, but now you don’t have to feel guilty about it. Banana ice-cream is not only healthy, but delicious too. Simply place bananas into the freezer for 3 hours, then slice and add to a food processor or Smoothie Mix and Go.
The frozen banana swiftly becomes ice-cream which is free from additives and super tasty. Top tip – sprinkle the ice cream with cocoa powder for an extra dimension of flavour. The banana ice-cream can be eaten alone, or used to accompany a healthy alternative dessert of your own.
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