Sneaking in the Veggies
I don’t know about you but there are days that it seems like a struggle to get the fruits and veggies into the family. Sometimes I am forced to find new ways to sneak them in. I thought I would post a few tips to make it a little easier on you.
- My number one go to trick is the never fail smoothie! Smoothies are a great way to not only sneak in the fruits but also the veggies. Spinach and carrots are an excellent addition to any smoothie. These two veggies are naturally sweet and do not change the flavor of the smoothie. Do not be afraid to try different vegetables. You would be surprised at how many different vegetables work in a “fruit” smoothie.
- My number two go to trick is pureeing them into my sauces and soups. I can not remember the last time I didn’t add any vegetables to my tomato sauce. To blend in the veggies I add 1 cup of my tomato sauce to whatever veggies I am blending. I like to blend in cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, zucchini, and kale. Blend in a blender or food processor on high until smooth. Return blended mixture to sauce and cook thoroughly.
- My number three go to trick is adding them to my baking. I will add carrots, pineapples, blueberries, cherries, or zucchini to my sweet breads or muffins. You can stir in applesauce in place of oil. Add pumpkin, carrot, or apple to your cookies. Cupcakes can be filled with a fruit compote filling, think jelly donuts.
- Cauliflower can be added to potatoes prior to mashing and load your pizza with fresh veggies or pineapple. If your kiddos raise their nose to veggies on pizza, blend them into the sauce. Don’t be afraid to add salsa to your baked potato, scrambled eggs, or quesidila. Salsa counts!
- If Oatmeal is a morning favorite add in fresh, frozen, or dried fruits. Sandwich’s should have lettuce and tomato, PB and J can have sliced bananas or peaches.
My goal is to add 3 fruits/vegetables to every dinner we have. If Mac & Cheese is on the menu then I will add in a can of peas or green beans, Serve with a salad, watermelon for dessert! Even if your kids only eat two of the green beans in their mac & cheese that is two more than if you didn’t add any.
