Clever Ways to Sneak In Healthy Snacks at Kids’ Parties
Kiddie Parties are almost always seen by children as an opportunity to binge – a break from mom’s home-cooked food, which almost always includes veggies (ho-hum) and fruit (yuck!). But should eating healthy always be a zero sum game?
Fortunately, kids are easy to figure out. Just make sure that the dishes are creatively prepared, flavorful, and have a little bit of their faves (like chocolate!) and they’ll enjoy it just the same.
Here are some creative ways to sneak in healthy ingredients in your next kiddie party menu:
1. Fruit popsicles
Combine real fruit juice and fruit bits to make colorful popsicles.
Photo by Nourishing Meals
http://www.nourishingmeals.com/2012/07/watermelon-whole-fruit-popsicles.html
2. Chocolate-covered fruits
Drizzle some slightly sweetened chocolate over fruits.
Photo by Marla Meridith
https://marlameridith.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Chocolate-Dipped-Berries-with-Sprinkles3.jpg
3. Parfait with fruits
This oat-fruit-and-yogurt combo makes a great substitute for sugar-laden ice cream!
Photo by Mom It Forward
http://momitforward.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/parfait.jpg
4. Fruit and veggie smoothie bowls
Great to eat on its own, or as dessert. Add as many healthy ingredients as you want (like cacao, nuts and coconuts).
Photo by Minimalist Baker
5. Chicken Drumsticks or Wings
Grill or bake instead of frying for a healthier chicken dish.
Photo by Bbq Guy Blog
http://bbqguyblog.blogspot.com/2012/04/chicken-drumsticks-wrapped-in-bacon.html
6. Chicken and Beef Meatballs with Veggies
Substitute chicken and beef for pork.
Photo by Minimalist Baker
http://minimalistbaker.com/vegan-sun-dried-tomato-basil-meatballs/
7. Wholewheat Sandwiches
Get creative and form different shapes with this one!
Photo by Stylze
https://sg.justdelegate.co/vendor-details/stylze-catering?category=Caterers
8. Veggie and Fruit Chips
Ditch the potato chips for this one. Trust us, they won’t know the difference!
Photo by Prana
https://www.prana.bio/en_ca/veggie-chips
9. Healthy Dips in Different Flavors
Guacamole, tomato salsa and hummus pack in flavor without the preservatives.
Photo by A Casual Bite to Eat
http://www.acasualbitetoeat.com/articles/three-healthy-easy-homemade-dips
10. A make-it-yourself station with healthy ingredients
Give them the freedom to make their own dish by laying out healthy ingredients for tacos, pizzas, bagels and more!
Photo by Pexels
https://www.pexels.com/photo/food-salad-restaurant-person-5317/