Clever Ways To Make Your Kids’ Food More Healthy

Is mealtime a struggle?

Since my kids were little, I’ve snuck healthy foods into their meals.

It started with chocolate avocado pudding. I said nothing; I just served it. They loved it — even the one that refused to eat avocadoes.

Another dislikes mushrooms.

So, when I make marinara, I dice carrots, celery, peppers, onions, garlic, and mushrooms. I use the immersion blender when it’s finished. All that’s left is a full-flavored sauce.

It’s his favorite.

A few to try

• Avocado chocolate mousse
• Chocolate peanut butter smoothie (add ½ an avocado to the recipe)
• Frozen butternut squash and beets in strawberry smoothies
• Mirepoix mix of onions, tomatoes, celery, and carrots in bean burritos. Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture.
• Mashed potatoes with blended cauliflower
• Coconut water in place of water in smoothies

Julie Gaeta

Julie Gaeta is a plant-based recipe creator, certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, and mom of nine who's been plant-based for over 20 years. She's cooked approximately 4,382 pots of beans and can't vacation without her juicer and pasta pot. Her work has been featured in HuffPost, Yahoo, YourTango, and other major outlets. She helps others simplify wellness and feel good again through her blog, coaching, and weekly newsletter.