Slippin’ Nutrition into Kids Diets

March is National Nutrition Month and Executive + Mom of 3 Chef Lindsay McClain is sharing her best kept secrets on adding nutrients into her daughters’ meals.

 1. Puree

Pureeing vegetables into kids’ meals is a great way to boost the nutritional value. Chef Lindsay purees microgreens into all her 6-month-old twins’ baby food purees, as well as meals and snacks for her 4-year-old.

“I puree microgreens into things I make for Lagertha, like brownie mix and SpaghettiOs. I make my own at home and freeze the pasta and sauce in portion containers to heat up when needed. When I make mac and cheese, I puree cauliflower into the sauce. DO NOT USE BROCCOLI, they will know—trust me!”

Lindsay also recommends mixing microgreen powder into PB&Js, soups, and other dishes. Make sure the powder is mixed completely, and it flies under the picky eater radar.

2. Get them Involved!

Another great hack is to include your kids in the cooking process to spark their interest.

“The thing that gets Lagertha (age 4) most interested in vegetables is letting her cook with me. She will eat things in the kitchen that she would never let me put on her plate…We have kid-safe knives, a kitchen stool, and kid’s apron for her. I also ask her what she wants…before going grocery shopping. Sometimes she will eat half of what I buy as soon as I bring it home because she is excited that I asked her opinion.”

Author’s Note: These hacks work for adults too!

As a certified picky eater, I have had success adding extra nutrients into my own meals using the same methods. Microgreen powder can be added to almost any dish with little to no effect on the flavor, texture, or look of the dish. It’s been a great way for me to eat healthier while still eating from a limited menu.