For many parents, salad is the final frontier–something they really, really wish their kids liked (but alas, their kids just don’t). My strategy has always been to serve “Starter Salads” to my kids. And not for nothing, but that approach also worked on my husband, who now eats big salads nightly and orders them in restaurants even when I’m not there. (I get all choked up just thinking about it.)
Here’s another idea for getting kids to love their greens: Create a “dippable” salad. I got this idea one night when I was making Caesar salad (get the recipe: Lightened-Up Caesar Salad). As I was tearing romaine, my seven year old kept sneaking pieces off the cutting board. He especially loved the leaves at the very center of the romaine hearts–the ones that are small, yellow, crunchy, and sweet. I eventually put some into a little bowl for him, and off he went, munching away.
Who says salad has to be eaten with a fork, anyway? The centers of romaine hearts are the perfect size and shape for holding and dipping and can be served right alongside carrot sticks, peppers, cucumbers, and other raw veggies with a favorite dip. When you serve veggies in different ways on different days, you may just hit on something your kids love!
Here are some recipes for homemade salad dressings to make and serve as dips:
Everyone Loves This Vinaigrette
Very Berry Naturally Pink Frosting
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This is such a great idea. My two year old is really into dipping anything and everything. Plus she does like salad and things like bell peppers, so this would be the perfect lunch!! Thanks!
Thanks Jennifer!
Dips are among the worst offenders when it comes to junk food. I am reluctant to start my kids on that nasty habit. Veggies are delicious and healthy until you smear them with grease and who knows what else. All that greasy oil is loaded with fat and calories, completely neutralizing the good properties of the veggies. I simply do not see the logic of treating vegetables in such a fashion. Sorry to be a party pooper but this really needs to be pointed out. People can do whatever, but at least they should be making an informed decision.
Shelley–It’s great if your kids enjoy veggies on their own, and mine certainly do sometimes as well. But I see nothing wrong with using dips and dressings as a tool for not only seasoning food but also helping kids feel comfortable with eating veggies, especially new ones. I actually wrote a post about that here: https://www.realmomnutrition.com/2014/11/06/defense-ranch-dressing/ Dressings can also be a great way to get healthy fats such as olive oil, fresh and dried herbs–and my Caesar dressing is made with Greek yogurt.
I love the dippable salad concept! I’m going to recommend this to my clients that won’t eat regular salads.
Thanks Heather!
You just totally inspired me Sally! We’ve been having a bit of a picky spell going on with the 7 year old. I know it is just a phase so I am not worked up about it (yet) but in the meantime, I’m happy for this creative way to get her to eat her veggies.
What kind of bowls are you using and what size. They are fun. My kids would love them
Hi Kristin–they are little ramekins I found at World Market: http://bit.ly/2vvYj2b