One way to get kids to be less pick and enjoy Family Dinners more, is to get them cooking in the Kitchen. Pick a day of the week that is less stressful and get the little people to help. Choose simple healthy recipes and get going. FYI – Cooking helps with math, science, and reading.
- washing veggies
- sorting veggies
- mixing items with clean hands (do not worry about utensils), the more they feel, touch, smell food, the more likely they are to eat it at some point
- getting ingredients by reading the label or by color
- measuring ingredients
- cutting items
- cooking the meat or pasta
- assembling chopped or cooked items
With the assistance of one of my families, here is a simple recipe from Giada and a perfect example of a budding chef.
Instructions:
In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey or chicken, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, Cook, stirring frequently, until cooked through, about 5 to 8 minutes. Set aside and cover to keep warm.
Bake until golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes and carefully unmold with a spoon onto a serving platter.
Recipe courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis
In Good Health, Ana-Maria Temple, MD