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# Foodlets

Simple Recipes. Fresh Ingredients. Kid Tested x4

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## Posts

- [What to make for dinner when you're exhausted. Because work, kids and puppies.](https://foodlets.com/2017/02/03/what-to-make-for-dinner-when-youre-exhausted-with-kids/) - Experts keep telling me to cook more often, and they've been doing it for a while now. Sometimes I would like to invite those guys to my house. That way I can give them a tour of Laundry Mountain, which is located just beyond Pile of Coats. Turn the corner and ta da you'll find the crumbly countertop
- [A Healthier, Faster Meatloaf Recipe: Replace Half the Beef with One of the Most Nutritious Ingredients](https://foodlets.com/2018/12/28/the-healthier-mini-meatloaf-recipe-with-half-beef-and-half-mushrooms/) - I've made this healthier version of meatloaf for a total of 10 kids and 9 adults now and I'm pleased to say that everyone, except one holdout, loved it. Even the kids. Even the dads. When you buy frozen prawn from us, you can be confident that each piece meets strict quality standards, offering the
- [5 Kitchen Appliances this Mom of 4 Would Buy All Over Again (and 2 I'd Skip)](https://foodlets.com/2023/09/20/5-kitchen-appliances-this-mom-of-4-would-buy-all-over-again-and-2-id-skip/) - Kitchen appliances are expensive and take up so much space! Here are the 5 kitchen appliances I'd buy again, and 2 that I'd skip. 1. Kitchenaid Stand Mixer What I use it for: Baking homemade cakes including the only chocolate cake recipe I ever use anymore (because it's AMAZING every time) and frostingTo knead homemade
- [Lunchbox Ideas Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2023/08/29/lunchbox-ideas-kids-love/) - These lunchbox ideas are a mix of make-ahead, super simple prep and shortcuts with store bought ingredients. Best of all, they're loved by all four of our kids every time. Lunchbox Main Dishes This is what I put in the biggest compartment of our lunchboxes, but you can always fill it with things you might've
- [This focaccia bread pizza will be your kids' new favorite lunch](https://foodlets.com/2023/08/02/focaccia-bread-pizza-for-kids-lunchboxes/) - My four kids LOVE this Focaccia bread pizza. Especially for lunch. Our whole family was already sold on regular focaccia bread. It's filling, full of heart-healthy olive oil and fragrant fresh rosemary. Plus, you can make it ahead of time which makes focaccia bread perfect for lunchboxes. But this pizza version of focaccia bread? Even
- [TikTok Cinnamon Rolls: The Viral Store-Bought Dough Hack Your Family Will Love](https://foodlets.com/2023/06/09/tiktok-cinnamon-rolls-the-viral-store-bought-dough-hack-your-family-will-love/) - I'm a fan of baking from scratch as often as possible, but you know what? It's not always possible! That's where shortcut recipes like these TikTok Cinnamon Rolls come in. Start with a simple roll of store-bought dough and with one simple hack, you'll have bakery-quality cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven. RECIPE Where
- [Oatmeal with Frozen Fruit is the Easy Breakfast Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2023/06/08/oatmeal-with-frozen-fruit-is-the-easy-breakfast-kids-love/) - Between the health benefits and how easy it is to make, oatmeal with frozen fruit is a winner every time. Especially since kids love it!
- [Sauteed Spinach with Garlic is the Best Frozen Spinach Recipe](https://foodlets.com/2015/01/30/simple-sides-frozen-spinach-garlic-powder-olive-oil/) - There are many things to love about this frozen spinach recipe. First, it's super versatile: Dice garlic, use the kind in a jar or grab garlic powder from your pantry.Use frozen spinach or fresh.Add wine or chicken broth. It's all up to you. I also love this frozen spinach recipe because it's vaguely Italian. That
- [Sheet Pan Tart with Roasted Sweet Onions](https://foodlets.com/2023/05/05/sheet-pan-tart-roasted-sweet-onions/) - This sheet pan tart is made with a gorgeous layer of roasted sweet onions and if you're wondering why I just wrote a sentence with "kids" and "onions", stick with me. Because this is a meal my kids actually ate, and loved. What you need to make a sheet pan tart Don't limit yourself to
- [Sheet Pan Quiche with Homemade Crust](https://foodlets.com/2023/04/26/sheet-pan-quiche-with-homemade-crust/) - We're all about making feeding a family easier around here. That's why sheet pan quiche is one of my favorite ideas. You'll have enough to feed a crowd, or leftovers that fit perfectly into our lunchboxes! How to Make Sheet Pan Quiche Sheet pan quiche is just like your favorite quiche but the size and
- [You're allowed to buy yourself a mother's day gift, and you're going to want one of these!](https://foodlets.com/2023/04/19/buy-yourself-a-mothers-day-gift/) - That's right. You deserve a great Mother's Day gift, and who better to pick out just the thing you like than you? Mother's Day is Sunday, May 14. That leaves plenty of time to order something wonderful, and these are just a few ideas to get you started. The Mother's Day Gift You Deserve This
- [What is the healthiest vegetable for kids? (Hint: There's more than one!)](https://foodlets.com/2023/03/30/what-is-the-healthiest-vegetable-for-kids-hint-theres-more-than-one/) - If you've ever wanted to know what is the healthiest vegetable for kids to eat, you're in luck. Because there are so many! Here is what experts say: Nearly half of American kids ages 1 through 5 aren't eating a vegetable on any given day. And nearly a third aren't eating a daily fruit, according
- [Cheese-Filled Shamrocks for St. Patrick's Day](https://foodlets.com/2023/03/14/cheese-filled-shamrocks-for-st-patricks-day/) - These adorable cheese-filled shamrocks start with our super simple bread dough recipe, with three quick additions: spinachParmesan cheesemozzarella cheese sticks They're a perfect idea for St. Patrick's Day food, either in lunchboxes or serving a crowd. How to make cheese-filled shamrocks Prep the spinach & Parmesan Cook 1/2 cup frozen spinach (or fresh) in a
- [Homemade Microwave Popcorn](https://foodlets.com/2023/02/16/homemade-microwave-popcorn/) - Making homemade microwave popcorn couldn't be easier -- and it's ONLY popcorn, butter and salt, without any of the extras you get with microwave popcorn from the store. Fresh, crunchy and full of fiber, come on! We eat homemade microwave popcorn after school, for family movie night and it's also perfect to fill out school
- [Pesto Quiche Cups with Biscuit Dough](https://foodlets.com/2023/02/15/pesto-quiche-cups-with-biscuit-dough/) - These delicious pesto quiche cups with biscuit dough are one of my kids' favorite lunchbox ideas. And they're an amazing make-ahead breakfast too. WHat you need to make pesto quiche cups with biscuit dough We use farm fresh eggs from our backyard chickens (which I highly recommend if only for the bug eating alone, but
- [How to make no-knead bread](https://foodlets.com/2023/02/12/how-to-make-no-knead-bread/) - This is the easiest -- and most delicious -- recipe! If you want to know how to make no-knead bread, you're in the right place. WHat you need to make no-knead bread all-purpose flouryeastsugarsalttime Here's how to make it. recipe: Variations This bread is so good with added ingredients too! I've added all of the
- [Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2023/02/07/easy-chicken-tikka-masala-kids-love/) - This easy chicken tikka masala recipe has three stages: marinating, cooking the chicken and making the sauce. That means you can break it up and do any part when it works for you. It's not necessarily a traditional tikka masala recipe but this simplified version is zesty without being too spicy. That's why this easy
- [What if family dinners didn't have to be so hard--and the solution wasn't only about food?](https://foodlets.com/2022/01/22/what-if-family-dinners-didnt-have-to-be-so-hard-and-the-solution-wasnt-only-about-food/) - Can picky eaters be transformed into kids who have the skills to try new foods? To enjoy family meals together? You might be surprised, especially at what it takes. Instead of recipes, raising happy, healthy little foodies calls for curiosity, patience and courage. It’s more about character than kale. Saying goodbye to stressful meals, finding
- [Top 10 foods (nearly) every baby likes](https://foodlets.com/2010/09/07/top-10-foods-nearly-every-baby-likes/) - PACKED WITH NUTRITION, you never have to feel bad about giving these to baby as often as you both want. 1 >>Sweet potatoes Roasting in the oven is easiest. Just rub the skin with a little olive oil, poke a few times with a fork and roast at 350 for about 45 minutes, depending on
- [Birthday Parties, Cooking Lessons & Workshops](https://foodlets.com/2022/05/24/charitys-cooking-lessons-for-kids-families/) - We're bringing fun to the kitchen! Whether you're hosting a party or need help with your reluctant eaters, our in-person events can help! Picky Eater Cooking Class for Kids Got kids who just don't want to try new foods? It's so common! And we can help. In this 2-hour workshop, kids create 4 delicious dishes,
- [14 Best Christmas Movies for Kids & Families, Plus Easy Finger Food Dinner Ideas](https://foodlets.com/2022/12/15/14-best-christmas-movies-for-kids/) - Recommendations for little kids, big kids and movies you'll love watching together Between all the Ho-Ho-Hoing, the holiday season also means extra trips to the store, rehearsals for every pageant you can imagine and so much present coordinating. Thinking. Ordering. Tracking. Wrapping. Hiding. Who else is exhausted? Here to save the day are... Kid-Friendly Christmas
- [How to Make Rosemary Infused Olive Oil](https://foodlets.com/2022/12/02/how-to-make-rosemary-infused-olive-oil/) - Rosemary infused olive oil is the easiest, most delicious handmade holiday gift we've made so far. It also comes with a personal touch because we grow so much rosemary on our property, plus we moved to Hillsborough, NC from Rome, where we all had plenty of both rosemary and olive oil. What better way to
- [Gift Guide for Kids Who Love to Cook](https://foodlets.com/2022/11/21/gift-guide-for-kids-who-love-to-cook/) - One of my goals for all four of my children is that they develop a love for fresh food, including making it! These gifts encourage food play, food prep and food appreciation. BABIES & TODDLERS Taco Toys $10 Make every day Taco Tuesday with this super cute 3-part set of crinkly teethers and toys. Kid-Safe
- [A surprising way to cut dinner stress: simplify the menu](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/18/a-surprising-way-to-cut-dinner-stress-simplify-the-menu/) - There's a hilarious cartoon circulating on Pinterest with a woman hunched over the arm of a chair in despair. The caption reads "Why do they want dinner every single night?" It's funny...because it's true. But it doesn't have to be so hard. I recently read about an idea that could change the anxiety level in
- [Welcome to Italy. And Parenthood. (Picky Part 2)](https://foodlets.com/2022/02/04/welcome-to-italy-and-parenthood-picky-part-2/) - Please. Just. Eat. It was raining babies in Rome. My husband and I left New York City, applied our Type A personalities to parenthood, and had three children in four years. Barely settled as expats in Italy, we had no support team, no nearby parents or aunties. It was a blurry haze of diapers, sweet
- [How Travel Is Reshaping the Fashion Industry](https://foodlets.com/2005/08/18/how-travel-is-reshaping-the-fashion-industry/) - Thе answer tо thе question 'how travel іѕ reshaping thе fashion industry' іѕ simple! Whеn аn Asian tourist оf a high socioeconomic status goes tо thе US аnd shops fashion accessories; thеу bring thе international market wіth thеm. Whеn thеу catch thе attention оf thе tор fashion brands, thеу cater thеіr needs bу thоѕе brands.
- [Healthy Pineapple Crisp Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2022/05/12/healthy-pineapple-crisp-kids-love/) - You know I love serving healthy versions of decadent dishes for breakfast: like strawberry cobbler, peach crisp and now this healthy pineapple crisp! What makes this pineapple crisp healthy? We use whole oats instead of plain white flour.Only a scant half cup of sugar for the whole pan.Fresh pineapple (instead of canned) has no added
- [My 5 Favorite Foods to Take a Family In Need](https://foodlets.com/2017/02/23/my-5-favorite-foods-to-take-a-family-in-need/) - Do you know a mom with a new baby? Or someone whose spouse just had an operation? What about a friend who could use a break? I've found that sometimes the best way to show I care is simple: show up with something delicious. Our elderly neighbor's wife was recently in the hospital for several weeks.
- [healthy chocolate zucchini cake](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/21/healthier-chocolate-zucchini-cake/) - WE'VE BEEN MAKING THIS HEALTHY CHOCOLATE ZUCCHINI CAKE (and chocolate zucchini muffins) every week. Each time I pluck a couple of zucchini from our garden, they're shredded and bound for batter. The recipe is easy, delicious and packed with veggies, which is more than you can say for most cakes, right? It's a riff on the
- [Got Small Kids? Try These 3 Game-Changers for a Better Thanksgiving](https://foodlets.com/2019/11/26/thanksgiving-small-kids/) - Thanksgiving can be a nightmare for parents of picky kids. We're planning on sharing the day with another family this year but it almost didn't happen. "Well, I'm not sure if it'll work," my friend admitted over a text message. "I mean, my kids are so picky! I don't want you guys to be offended."
- [25 Hardworking kitchen products to finally get organized, and stay that way](https://foodlets.com/2022/04/01/25-hardworking-kitchen-products-to-finally-get-organized-and-stay-that-way/) - Managing a busy family kitchen is so stressful. But one of my favorite ways to combat anxiety is putting things away. Less clutter means more mental peace. So much more. Here are the top-rated products from Amazon to help. Pullout Spice Drawer This easy slider makes all your ingredients visible and reachable. Promising review: "After
- [Fun Food for St. Patrick's Day](https://foodlets.com/2022/03/15/fun-food-for-st-patricks-day/) - My kids love celebrating St. Patrick's Day, especially with all of these super fun foods. Mini Reuben SandwichesMinty Green Chocolate Chip CookiesVery Small Shepard's PiesRainbow ParfaitsFried Broccoli Cheddar PattiesDIY Shamrock Tortilla ChipsSpinach WrapsVery Green Mac & CheeseVanilla Spinach Cupcakes
- [spinach wraps 2 ways for st. patrick's day](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/14/spinach-wraps-2-ways-for-st-patricks-day/) - WHO KNEW THE EASIEST WAY TO RING IN ST. PATRICK'S DAY was found in a package of spinach wraps? I bought a simple bag of 6 sandwich wraps from the grocery store then made two things today. The first was lunch. My preschoolers (ages 4 and 3) were surprisingly thrilled with their green roll-ups. "Ooooh, it's
- [Apple Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies](https://foodlets.com/2022/03/02/apple-carrot-cake-breakfast-cookies/) - The healthy make-ahead breakfast my four kids love These apple carrot cake breakfast cookies come together quickly--and taste like a dream. Especially when served with a vanilla steamer, AKA Kiddie Cappuccino. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Foodlets (@foodlets) These Apple Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies are packed with nutritious ingredients! Lots of
- [What I wish I'd known about having backyard chickens](https://foodlets.com/2022/02/28/what-i-wish-id-known-about-having-backyard-chickens/) - I've had backyard chickens for about five years and it's been amazing. I love it. Benefits of Backyard chickens Chickens eat ticks. They eat compost. They produce even better compost. Backyard chicken egg yolks are the color of the sun. Kids get to experience the natural process of egg production (and the responsibility that comes
- [What you need for backyard chickens](https://foodlets.com/2022/02/27/what-you-need-for-backyard-chickens/) - Getting chickens? Here is everything you need to get started Want to know what you need for backyard chickens? I've had chickens for five years and I love them so much. I have never once regretted having them, which is more than I can say for SO MANY ideas I've had in this wild little
- [60 Best Movies for Kids and Families to Watch Together](https://foodlets.com/2017/10/25/best-movies-for-kids/) - Overlooked, Under-Hyped or Older Favorites You Might Have Missed What are the best movies for kids? We have four small kids and love Dinner & a Movie Night! Since you already know about all the "Avengers" and "Harry Potter" movies, these are the OTHER recommendations for families. Not too scary. Classics that have aged well.
- [Creamy Lemon Pasta Primavera](https://foodlets.com/2022/02/24/creamy-lemon-pasta-primavera/) - The secret of this creamy lemon pasta primavera is simple: roast the vegetables in the oven first. You won't regret the extra flavor, not one bit. Plus, if your kids are used to eating roasted vegetables, that's a flavor ladder you can use to introduce them to something slightly new. All the familiar characters are
- [Healthy Double Chocolate Muffins (With 5 Kinds of Vegetables & Fruit Inside)](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/20/magical-double-chocolate-muffins-with-5-kinds-of-vegetables-fruit-inside/) - Some muffins are really just cupcakes pretending to be good for you. These are not those muffins. As a mom of four small kids, healthy muffins are my secret weapon for packing as many nutritious ingredients into my rascals as possible. All those fruits and veggies? That's the magic. How to make magical double chocolate
- [6 secrets to help kids go from picky eating to “Yes, P-L-E-A-S-E!”—and only 1 is about food](https://foodlets.com/2022/02/14/6-secrets-to-help-kids-go-from-picky-eating-to-yes-p-l-e-a-s-e-and-only-1-is-about-food/) - Can picky eating be transformed into kids who have the skills to try new foods? Will we ever enjoy family meals together? You might be surprised, especially at what it takes. Instead of recipes, raising happy, healthy little foodies calls for curiosity, patience and courage. Moving beyond picky eating is more about character than kale.
- [Your Family’s New Favorite Weekend Breakfast: The Big Dutch Baby](https://foodlets.com/2016/02/13/big-dutch-baby-the-weekend-breakfast-our-kids-love/) - There's a weekend breakfast that makes all four of my kids cheer: Dutch baby. A cross between a giant pancake and a souffle, a Dutch baby's packed with protein (thank you eggs!) and takes about 3 minutes to prep (you too, blender!). We serve ours hot out of the oven, slathered in apple butter , a SUPER
- [What would Ina Garten do? (Picky Part 3)](https://foodlets.com/2022/02/07/what-would-ina-garten-do/) - How the Food Network taught me not to feed a family. I was a single girl in New York for so many years that a PB&J with baby carrots on the side became my default dinner. Why cook for one? Unless I was hosting a dinner party and changed gears. Here’s how that looked: First,
- [How Moving to Italy and Back Taught a Mom of 4 to Find Peace with Her Picky Eaters](https://foodlets.com/2022/02/04/how-moving-to-italy-and-back-taught-a-mom-of-4-to-find-peace-with-her-picky-eaters-part-1/) - Picky Series, Part 1 “Veloce! Veloce!” My bulging belly threatened to burst from the bathing suit I bought a month earlier in the Italian department store near our new apartment. With no maternity section, I settled for a matronly black and white number bearing a striking resemblance to a real life orca. Since moving to
- [Our New Favorite Healthy Snack for Kids: Chocolate Chip Oat Cups with Cranberries](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/19/our-favorite-new-healthy-snack-for-kids-chocolate-chip-cranberry-oat-cups/) - I'm always looking for new ideas when it comes to healthy snacks for kids. And starting this fall, those healthy snacks need to be portable. Because I caved. Three of my four kids are starting after-school activities this year. Between two dance classes and one after-school basketball program, the next nine months will basically be
- [baked mac & cheese...with carrots!](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/30/baked-carrot-mac-cheese/) - THIS IS IT, MY NEW FAVORITE RECIPE for mac and cheese. I've mentioned Melissa Clark's Carroty Macaroni & Cheese before, but before this week's "carrot retrospective"/insane challenge to get our girls eating more of the orange stuff, I hadn't actually tried it. Two main ingredients are hard to come by in Rome, cheddar cheese and
- [Our Most Popular Casserole Recipe Ever: Sausage, Rice, Zucchini & Cheese](https://foodlets.com/2013/06/24/baked-zucchini-with-brown-rice-and-tomato-sauce-with-sausage/) - PHOEBE WASN'T EXACTLY PLEASED. Suddenly my four-year-old is opposed to everything being combined into a one-pot dinner. "Only one thing?", she asks as incredulously as only a preschooler can. And to that I say (at least in my head), "When you start doing the dishes my dear, we can use all the pans for every
- [Baked risotto with bacon and peas](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/12/baked-risotto-with-bacon-and-peas/) - SPIN-OFFS ARE A VERY BIG PART OF MY master plan (rubs palms together yet controls the urge to laugh maniacally. Probably because that would be weird. Anyway...). Estelle LOVES rice these days so without driving everyone crazy, I'm going to try as many variations as I can, as often as I can. Also, Phoebe thinks
- [Valentines Gifts for Kids & Little Foodies](https://foodlets.com/2022/01/26/valentines-gifts-for-kids-little-foodies/) - Looking for Valentines gifts for kids? I found the cutest, sweetest ideas for little foodies--with the best reviews--right here. cutting board for char-kiderie boards No sweeter way to serve up your favorite cheese, crackers, fruits and more. ice cubes This is a riff on one of my kid's favorite drinks. Place a few frozen berries
- [5-Minute Meatball Skewers](https://foodlets.com/2015/09/08/5-minute-meatball-skewers/) - The season for packing school lunches is in full swing around here, and these 5-Minute Meatball Skewers are part of the reason I haven't tried to climb into my morning cup of coffee. So far. These meatball skewers are so easy, hearty and a colorful addition to any lunch box. Technique Start with frozen but
- [12 Easy Dinners with Beans & Lentils](https://foodlets.com/2020/03/24/easy-dinners-with-beans-lentils/) - Pantry staples like beans and lentil make dinner easy. Best of all, each of these recipes was tested by all four of my own rascals. Sausage, Bean & Kale Soup The best way to make a small amount of meat go far? Add it to soup! This one is a huge hit with my kids
- [What to Put in Care Packages for People Experiencing Homelessness](https://foodlets.com/2017/12/15/what-to-put-in-care-packages-homeless/) - What's best to put in care packages for people experiencing homelessness? It was a couple of summers ago when my kids came bursting through the door clutching Ziplock bags full of granola bars, water bottles and more. "We made Good Samaritan Bags at church!" they roared. "They're care packages for the homeless to keep in
- [Best Soup Recipes: Comforting, Kid-Tested & Easy Enough for Busy Families](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/03/best-soup-recipes-comforting-kid-easy/) - Our best soup recipes are perfect for busy families. With shortcuts and tons of options for swapping ingredients (and toppings), these soups are a hit with at least three of my four of my kids every time. And that, my friends, is considered a victory. Sausage, Bean & Kale Soup Full of flavorful sausage with
- [4 Yummy Recipes to Use Ripe Bananas](https://foodlets.com/2022/01/19/recipes-to-use-ripe-bananas/) - Need yummy recipes to use ripe bananas? Buying bananas is always a struggle for me. Either my 9YO eats all of them in two days, or we have five or six stragglers on the counter, getting browner every time I glance their way. That's why I have all four of these options in my mind,
- [10 Easy Pasta Recipes Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2021/09/28/easy-pasta-recipes-kids-love/) - With four kids and a busy weekly schedule, our routine now includes the cutest meal prep ever: #PhoebeSavesTheDay. My twelve-year-old makes pasta every Thursday. Easy pasta. Delicious pasta. These are the easy pasta recipes our whole family loves. Brown Butter Pasta with Sage This one-ingredient topping takes three to five minutes to make, but don't
- [5 Ways to Help Picky Eaters](https://foodlets.com/2022/01/11/my-picky-eater-is-driving-me-crazy/) - Sound familiar? Having a picky eater is such a universal experience. Most of us go through it, even if we had babies who ate everything. I've been in this position with my own kids, four times! Here's what worked best for us: Limit snacks. Hungry kids are less picky kids. Our kids have two snacks
- [Recipes for Picky Eaters: 12 Ways to Add Secret Fruit & Veggies](https://foodlets.com/2022/01/16/recipes-for-picky-eaters-add-secret-fruit-veggies/) - It can be hard for kids to get enough produce, especially picky eaters. That's why I love these 12 recipes to add secret fruit and veggies to their meals. In my experience, repeatedly offering vegetables to kids, in lots of ways, eventually works. But in the meantime, kids still need to shoot for the five recommended
- [Beef & cheese quesadillas (with a secret good-for-you ingredient)](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/01/beef-cheese-quesadillas-with-a-secret-good-for-you-ingredient/) - GRATE EVERYTHING, I say. That's my philosophy for "Taco Night", which has actually become quesadilla night--the one that's easier to eat and less likely to fall on the floor wins in my house. And since our ethnic food offerings are spare in Rome, to say the least, these flour tortillas are much easier to find
- [Rainbow Smoothies: A Fun Way for Kids to Eat More Fruit & Vegetables](https://foodlets.com/2017/01/09/rainbow-smoothies-a-fun-way-for-kids-to-eat-more-fruit-vegetables/) - Want an easy way to get your kids interested in eating more fruit and vegetables? Experts say kids need about 5 servings of fruit and vegetables every day, but it can be hard to do. That's why I was so excited to see this rainbow smoothie idea on Super Healthy Kids a couple of years ago.
- [Easy Homemade Bread Recipe (Kids Can Make It!)](https://foodlets.com/2018/10/22/the-easy-bread-recipe-your-kids-can-make-themselves/) - Is there a homemade bread recipe so easy that kids can make it? You bet. "MMM! That's SO GOOD!" That's what my nine-year-old said when she took a bite of this homemade bread. And guess who baked this homemade bread? She did! It's from my first cookbook for kids, "Super Simple Baking for Kids". I
- [Easy Mashed Potatoes](https://foodlets.com/2022/01/05/easy-mashed-potatoes/) - These easy mashed potatoes are the creamiest, most delicious version of a childhood favorite--except they're simpler and a little more nutritious than what I grew up with. We gave mashed potatoes the Foodlets treatment. What you need to make easy mashed potatoes Yellow/gold potatoesSalt & pepperPlain Greek yogurtOptional: Riced cauliflower What makes these mashed potatoes
- [Dairy-Free Creamy Tomato Soup with a Surprising Source of Protein: White Beans!](https://foodlets.com/2016/03/01/creamy-tomato-soup-with-white-beans/) - You'll never guess the hard-working ingredient in our creamy tomato soup...white beans. Yep, a simple can of white beans brings protein to a meal that you wouldn't usually call hearty. And since there's no dairy, you might not guess creamy. But that's what this soup is. It's also delicious. My first grader sure thinks so. I
- [Better Than Campbell's Chunky Tomato Soup](https://foodlets.com/2021/12/30/better-than-campbells-chunky-tomato-soup/) - This chunky tomato soup comes together in 15 minutes--and it's better than anything you'd find in a can. Easy, bursting with flavor and a favorite for kids. Can't get better than that! What you need to make chunky tomato soup 2 onions1/2 cup butter (one stick)2 26-ounce cans of tomatoes (any kind)Salt & pepper That's
- [Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies with a Christmas Twist](https://foodlets.com/2021/12/07/brown-butter-chocolate-chip-cookies-christmas-cookies/) - Brown butter is my family's newest favorite topping for everything. Pasta, steak, chicken. With one ingredient, you have a whole sauce! And now, brown butter is the game-changing ingredient for Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies with a Christmas Twist! 3 Ways to Make Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies for Christmas And there's so much more
- [Simple Sweet Potato & Green Apple Soup](https://foodlets.com/2021/11/05/simple-sweet-potato-green-apple-soup/) - Making this simple sweet potato and green apple soup is not only easy but it's a crowd pleaser for the knee high crowd every time. Why use Sweet Potatoes instead of butternut squash? Butternut squash soup is an Ina Garten classic. It's SO GOOD. But when I'm cooking for kids, sweet potatoes work better. Because:
- [Arrosticini, meat on a stick (aka the easiest sell ever)](https://foodlets.com/2011/11/26/arrosticin-meat-on-a-stick-aka-the-easiest-sell-ever/) - FOR PICKY EATERS OR TODDLERS (which are basically the same) sometimes it takes a stick. In Italy, they do amazing little kabobs called arrosticini, which are actually made from lamb. It's a specialty dish from the Abruzzo region but often found everywhere. However, I'm guessing that: a. lamb is harder to find at your grocery
- [Grilled chicken salad with peppers two ways: one for toddlers, one for adults](https://foodlets.com/2011/10/05/grilled-chicken-salad-two-ways-toddlers/) - IT'S AN INDIAN SUMMER IN ITALY. So we're still into salads here and they come in two versions. One for adults and one for toddlers (aka, one that will not be spit out.) The culprit? Lettuce. So Phoebe's version is simply a deconstructed salad. Hers is all toppings and no filler, which is basically a
- [5 Italian foods kids love](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/17/5-italian-foods-kids-love/) - WE TOOK A TRIP to the Le Marche region of Italy this spring...and it was delicious. Our hosts were a young couple from the States, transplanted to the Italian countryside where they run La Tavola Marche, a beautifully restored villa turned B&B for food lovers. I took a cooking lesson from Jason, a classically trained
- [Chocolate scones with peanut butter](https://foodlets.com/2011/08/22/chocolate-scones-with-peanut-butter/) - TOAST. TOAST WITH JAM. TOAST with peanut butter. This is how most mornings begin at our house, with a request for the same thing. Every day. Toast. In the past it's been oatmeal which I admit is a gooier task to prepare and certainly to clean up. But really, how much can a piece of
- [Beginner baby food: 5 first foods for babies](https://foodlets.com/2011/08/01/5-first-foods-for-babies/) - HERE WE ARE AGAIN. I'm thrilled to say that Estelle is now officially an eater. A foodlet, I don't know but she's eating solid food and that's good enough for me. We started her on the classic "beginner" foods and once she got the hang of it her reaction went from eyes-closed shuddering to an
- [Why You Should Bring Food to Someone with a New Baby About 2 Months In: 5 Dishes They'll Love](https://foodlets.com/2017/03/02/why-you-should-bring-food-to-a-friend-with-a-new-baby-about-2-months-in/) - I'm one of those people. The days after my first baby were born are some of the sweetest in my whole, entire life. (Not the birth itself. This is an important distinction. My first experience with natural childbirth was, um, surprising. I simply didn't know your body could feel like that while NOT being attacked by
- [6 Ways to Have Happier Family Meals](https://foodlets.com/2021/11/08/how-to-have-happier-family-meals/) - Brilliant, Researched Ideas from "How to Be a Happier Parent" KJ Dell'Antonia is a writer I've followed for a long time, starting with the parenting blog that she wrote and edited for The New York Times, Motherlode. So when her book, "How to Be a Happier Parent" came out, I snapped it up. Here are
- [Holiday Wish List for Little Foodies](https://foodlets.com/2021/11/06/holiday-wish-list-for-little-foodies/) - All the best gift ideas for foodies, from little kids to bigger kids, designed to teach, thrill and inspire from under the tree. LITTLE KIDS Let's Learn About Sushi! Read this gorgeous little book to kids and they'll get a taste of Japanese culture plus decadent descriptions of what could be their future favorite food.
- [Pumpkin Pie Breakfast Cookies with Whole Oats](https://foodlets.com/2017/10/05/pumpkin-pie-breakfast-cookies-with-whole-oats/) - What happens when you combine our favorite Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Zucchini Chocolate Chip Breakfast Cookies? The perfect fall breakfast: Pumpkin Pie Breakfast Cookies with Whole Oats. Just throw everything together in one big mixing bowl, bake and bam. A gluten-free, make-ahead breakfast that's not too sweet but boy is it satisfying. My eight-year-old called
- [How to Make Brown Butter: The 1-Ingredient Sauce Your Family Will Love](https://foodlets.com/2021/09/21/how-to-make-brown-butter/) - When you learn how to make brown butter, you'll have a one-ingredient sauce your family will love. On anything. Brown butter pasta. Brown butter chicken. Brown butter vegetables. Bonus, brown butter sauce requires only a few minutes and exactly one ingredient to make. Perfect for busy families. What You Need to Make Brown Butter Unsalted
- [5 Things Living In Italy Taught Me About Bringing Small Kids to Restaurant](https://foodlets.com/2016/02/01/5-things-living-in-italy-taught-me-about-bringing-small-kids-to-restaurants/) - "You know, we don't have a children's menu," the receptionist told me over the phone, his voice suddenly getting a little terse. "Yes, I know," I said. "We'll be fine." I mean, I hope we'll be fine. When I called for a reservation at one of our town's nicest restaurants near me that caught my
- [Pizza Pockets with Hidden Vegetables](https://foodlets.com/2021/09/09/pizza-pockets-hidden-vegetables/) - What's better than pizza for lunch? How about kid-friendly pizza pockets with hidden vegetables! My kids love the sweet and tangy flavor of our Veggie-Filled Tomato Sauce. But I was already roasting vegetables for quiche cups this week and decided to use a new method. The result is a super simple pizza sauce that's packed
- [Tea Party Ideas for Kids: Menus, Decor and Songs](https://foodlets.com/2019/03/12/tea-party-ideas-for-kids-menus-decor-and-songs/) - I love hosting tea parties for kids! They work for birthday parties big and pink and small with costumes -- plus fun afternoons at home. Tea parties for kids are fancy, fun and easier than you think to pull off but best of all...tea parties are great for teaching manners. "Oh, thank you so much!"
- [Old-Fashioned Potato Salad](https://foodlets.com/2021/06/07/old-fashioned-potato-salad-recipe/) - I grew up eating my grandma's old-fashioned potato salad recipe and there's nothing better. I've tried a dozen different recipes and Ina Garten's French potato salad with fresh herbs is a close second. But this old-fashioned potato salad recipe remains my favorite. Old-Fashioned Potato Salad Shortcuts If you're a busy parent, the idea of making
- [What are the Healthiest Foods for Kids?](https://foodlets.com/2018/12/20/what-are-the-healthiest-foods-for-kids/) - That's the question tackled by Sally Kuzemchak, M.S., R.D. in her new book "The 101 Healthiest Foods for Kids." With a friendly tone, tons of recipes, fascinating facts and handy lists, this book is a must for parents who want to raise the nutritional bar for their families. According to dr. fauci and vitamin d
- [Whole-Wheat Banana Bread Pudding for Breakfast](https://foodlets.com/2021/09/02/whole-wheat-banana-bread-pudding-breakfast/) - We gave the decadent banana bread pudding recipe from The Kitchn a makeover and our whole-wheat, lower sugar version is amazing. As we do in every Foodlets recipe makeover, in a category I call Barefoot for Babies (a nod to how I started cooking for my young family by simplifying Ina Garten recipes), I made
- [15 Family Favorites: Dinners My Kids Ask for Again and Again](https://foodlets.com/2021/08/26/15-family-favorites-dinners-my-kids-ask-for-again-and-again/) - Kid-friendly ideas for dinner! These 15 family favorites have stood the test of time and our kids as for them over and over. When "What's for dinner?" sounds like fighting words, come to this list. Each meal is easy enough for cooks of any level, fast enough for busy families and nutritious enough to make
- [15 Foods I Stopped Buying When I Started Reading Labels](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/31/15-foods-i-stopped-buying-when-i-started-reading-labels/) - IT SOUNDS SO LAME. Reading labels in the grocery store. Who has the time? From the moment you lift the rascals into that race car shopping cart you've got about 10 minutes to whiz through the store before it gets ugly. You know time's up as you question whether you REALLY need deodorant when it's all the way on the
- [3-Ingredient Chia Seed Refrigerator Jam](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/26/refrigerator-chia-seed-jam/) - WHY MAKE JAM when in the year 2015 it's very easy to zip right down to the Food Lion and pick up a jar or seven? And what about your mom's delicious homemade recipe? Here's my case for chia seed refrigerator jam: Store-bought or homemade, jam is typically full of sugar. Making traditional strawberry jam
- [homemade strawberry cereal bars with whole oats](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/25/homemade-cereal-bars-with-strawberries-whole-oats/) - I'VE TRIED TO MAKE BARS LIKE THESE BEFORE. A bunch of times. The results were too thick, too crumbly or just not flavorful enough. This time we got it right. Look out Nutrigrain bars, we've got a homemade version that's fresher, less expensive and even yummier. The kids actually cheered when I served these for
- [Balsamic Bruschetta Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2021/07/13/balsamic-bruschetta-kids/) - This is the easiest way to make balsamic bruschetta kids love. Pronounced bru-ske-ta, our whole family enjoys this summer side dish. We started with basic tomato bruschetta, and let the littles dollop those juicy tomatoes on top of toast in our DIY version. Now we've added a new, sweeter, twist for balsamic bruschetta kids love.
- [The Best Kitchen Gadgets I've Ever Bought](https://foodlets.com/2019/05/01/the-best-kitchen-gadgets-ive-ever-bought/) - Some kitchen gadgets end up being such a waste of money, of space, of your soul. But these kitchen gadgets, mamas, these are the best appliances I've ever bought for my kitchen. The BARS - repair and replacement of appliances is the best choice for your kitchenkni, since a bosch appliance repair can save your
- [15 Valentine's Day Gifts for Kids Who Love Cooking](https://foodlets.com/2021/02/01/valentines-day-gifts-kids/) - Not only do we have tons of recipes to celebrate Valentine's Day with kids but we've scoured the reviews to find the most adorable (and highest-rated) Valentine's Day gifts for kids online. Solid Chocolate Letter Choose any letter (or number) when you order milk chocolate created fresh by chocolate makers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. $8 ">.
- [Cane Syrup Pecan Pie from "The Farmhouse Chef"](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/14/cane-syrup-pecan-pie-from-the-farmhouse-chef/) - (Excerpted from "The Farmhouse Chef" by Jamie DeMent.) Some people say that I live in the superlative. Everything is the very best or very worst. Well, this is the best pecan pie you will ever cook. I promise. No corn syrup needed. People from around the world will sit at your dinner table and tell
- [4-Ingredient Rainbow Meringue Cookies](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/24/4-ingredient-rainbow-meringue-clouds/) - These rainbow meringue cookies are basically the cutest things I've ever made. With only a few ingredients, rainbow meringues are actually so simple that kids can make them. For real. I love simple recipes like this that make a big impact. They're confidence boosters for young (and not so young) cooks. Plus the end result
- [Super Strawberry Fritters](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/05/super-strawberry-fritters/) - These 3-ingredient strawberry fritters say welcome to the weekend. With fewer items to add than regular ol' pancakes, they're packed full of flavor--and practically all fruit so you don't even need syrup. Like our blueberry-apple version, these easy fritters make healthy finger foods for babies and toddlers, not to mention a no-sugar snack for any
- [Cheery Cherry Tomato Salad with Basil](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/09/cherry-tomato-salad/) - YOU KNOW WHAT you should do this week? Have people over for dinner. Once you get the laundry done and your house totally clean, just invite them over. Ha, ha, ha! Even though the laundry most certainly ISN'T done and your house is stubbornly refusing to clean itself, you should still have people over. And
- [Star Wars Birthday Party Ideas (Including Brilliant Storm Trooper Cupcakes)](https://foodlets.com/2017/07/07/star-wars-birthday-party-ideas-including-brilliant-storm-trooper-cupcakes/) - When George told me he wanted to have a Star Wars birthday party for his fifth birthday, I started searching the interwebs ASAP, luckily I found inspiration--then put my own spin on everything. The goal: Easy but adorable ideas a real lady with lots of small children could actually pull off. These adorable storm trooper
- [Rainbow in the Clouds Cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/2021/06/07/rainbow-in-the-clouds-cupcakes/) - If you love rainbows, you'll love these Rainbow in the Clouds Cupcakes with colorful stripes inside and out! That's why I included it in my book, Cupcake Cookbook for Kids. Start with our vanilla cupcake batter below and add vanilla frosting (We have an EXCELLENT vanilla frosting recipe in the cupcake cookbook but if you
- [Rainbow Surprise Pound Cake](https://foodlets.com/2021/06/07/rainbow-surprise-pound-cake/) - This might look like your average loaf cake from the outside but wait until you cut it open! A rainbow surprise waits inside. That's why I included it (along with 23 more delicious ideas) in my book, Kid Chef Junior Bakes: My First Cookbook. Take a look at how fun -- and simple -- this
- [Bears at the Beach Cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/2021/06/07/bears-at-the-beach-cupcakes/) - The best thing about these bears at the beach cupcakes is that kids can help make them! That's why I included them along with dozens more ideas in my book, Cupcake Cookbook for Kids. Take a look at how sweet and simple every idea is, including this one. Excerpted from Cupcake Cookbook for kids Coconut
- [12 Fun Summer Cupcake Ideas for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2021/06/06/summer-cupcake-ideas/) - These fun summer cupcake ideas are perfect to make for a get together, sleepover or even a sunny Saturday at home. Best of all, each one is easy enough for kids to help with. Most of these are included in my book, Cupcake Cookbook for Kids, and the rest are detailed below! Bears at the
- [Do What You Think You Can't: What it's like to raise a child with type 1 diabetes](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/31/do-what-you-think-you-cant-what-its-like-to-raise-a-child-with-type-1-diabetes/) - As part of a new series on the challenges of parenting, I'm thrilled to bring a guest post to Foodlets today, written by Leigh Fickling. AKA, the human pancreas. Here is her story. Almost five years ago, I joined a club that I never signed up for. A club I had no interest in and
- [Easy Blackberry Crisp](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/26/easy-blackberry-crisp/) - We're blackberry farmers now. If you count two blackberry bushes. And I think we do. So... Ours are brimming with fruit and every morning when I shoo the rascals outside, their first stop is our awesome new blackberry crop. A few cups of fresh (or frozen) fruit later and it's off to figure out what
- [Vegetarian Dinner Ideas for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2021/06/01/vegetarian-dinner-ideas-for-kids/) - Tons of kids (and adults) are eating less meat these days, which makes my family's favorite vegetarian dinner ideas for kids a list I keep on hand for my own kitchen! Rich and flavorful, hearty and satisfying, all of our vegetarian dinner ideas for kids are simple to make with flavors children love. Everything's easy.
- [Whole-Wheat Strawberry Breakfast Cobbler](https://foodlets.com/2021/05/25/whole-wheat-strawberry-breakfast-cobbler/) - Breakfast cobbler is for cobbler people like us. I make cobblers filled with blueberries, blackberries and peaches all summer long. But what about breakfast? Could we get some of this fruity goodness into our lives earlier in the day? I revamped my favorite cobbler recipe into something heartier with more fiber (to stick with littles
- [Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/15/easy-salisbury-steak-meatballs/) - How do you feed a whole family with one pound of ground beef? Try our Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs! This simplified recipe is already a favorite with my kids. We serve our Easy Salisbury Steak Meatballs over brown rice but you could certainly use egg noodles or any kind of pasta. What Makes these Salisbury
- [Roasted Broccoli Pasta](https://foodlets.com/2021/05/24/roasted-broccoli-pasta/) - When I tell you that my kids love roasted broccoli pasta, you won't believe that the main ingredient is...broccoli. There's roasted broccoli, as you see here, but what you can't make out so well is the roasted broccoli that's also pureed into a sauce. Double broccoli. And now for the part that'll leave you shocked:
- [Easy Green Smoothie Recipe for Beginners](https://foodlets.com/2017/02/13/the-surprisingly-delicious-green-smoothie-i-make-almost-every-day/) - This easy green smoothie recipe is perfect for beginners. Also, it's the most delicious smoothie I've ever had. Really. The mix of pineapple, coconut water and banana is JUST sweet enough to feel like a treat. And the spinach makes it good for you. So satisfying that I make one of these easy green smoothie
- [The Simple Way We Cut Fights, Made Bedtime Easier & Increased the Peace at Dinner](https://foodlets.com/2015/09/11/the-simple-way-we-cut-the-fights-made-bedtime-easier-increased-the-peace/) - Sometimes I forget that I am the leader of this unit. That these tiny faces, the ones that look just like my own, are actually expecting me to set the tone, to explain the rules, to lead them through each and every day. Even when I'm tired out. Or hungry. Or just plain spent. That's been happening
- [15 Eco-Friendly Gifts for Cooks](https://foodlets.com/2019/11/18/eco-friendly-gifts-cooks/) - From stocking stuffers to major gifts, every one of these ideas is eco-friendly, with excellent ratings and free shipping. For more options on eco-friendly gifts, check out great choices on Fluff Heaven. 1. Handcrafted Serving Tray $100 Made from solid walnut, interlocking dovetail joints replace nails for construction that won’t pull apart, staying in pristine
- [A Buyer's Guide To CBD](https://foodlets.com/2018/10/29/a-buyers-guide-to-cbd/) - CBD buyer's guideWhat is a CBD product tested for? CBD is a type of cannabinoid that has many uses, both medicinal and non-medicinal. For example, CBD has been shown to stimulate the growth of certain types of cancer cells and has been shown to help with seizures. It can also treat multiple sclerosis. In recent
- [How to Shop for Groceries Online, Locally and 2 Weeks at a Time](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/04/how-to-shop-for-groceries-online-locally-and-2-weeks-at-a-time/) - Wondering how to shop for groceries online? I've never been a great meal planner but now that we're "sheltering in place", my shopping trips have gotten MUCH fewer and more strategic. The first time I tried shopping for groceries online it felt like Fantasia. How am I supposed to find all the things when I'm not
- [How 6 Rules Can Transform Your Family Meals from Stressful to Enjoyable (Even With Small Kids)](https://foodlets.com/2015/12/04/family-food-rules-transform-family-meals-from-stressful-to-enjoyable/) - Does your family dinner include a lot of complaining? Do you look forward to spending that time together, or is it more stressful than anything else? When it's time to clean up after a meal, is everyone helping out? You can guess how I used to answer these questions at my own house: YES, THE
- [Rice Pudding with Sweetened Condensed Milk](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/19/3-ingredient-rice-pudding/) - Can you make rice pudding with sweetened condensed milk? You certainly can! We've recently discovered the joy of chocolate rice pudding (starting with leftover but perfectly cooked brown rice) but dare I say it, I love this sweetened condensed milk rice pudding AT LEAST as much. Maybe more. Because you only need 3 ingredients. And
- [Mango Chia Seed Pudding with Berries](https://foodlets.com/2020/01/15/mango-chia-seed-pudding/) - This is the second bowl of mango chia seed pudding I've made the kids...in two days. The minute those rascals dug into this protein-rich breakfast, that happened to be a breeze to whip up the night before, it was all smiles. And "Yum!" and "Can you please make this again?" What other breakfast gets a
- [How to Roast Baby Carrots: Prep these Maple-Glazed Baby Carrots in 2 Minutes!](https://foodlets.com/2015/01/05/easiest-ever-roasted-carrots/) - Wondering what else you can do with that bag of baby carrots besides dunking in a bowl of Ranch dressing? One of my four kids' favorite side dish starts with a bag of baby carrots and ends with tender, perfectly cooked roasted carrots. If you've got a few simple ingredients plus about two minutes, you
- [Wondering How to Cook Swiss Chard? Try This Creamed Swiss Chard Recipe!](https://foodlets.com/2021/05/04/how-to-cook-swiss-chard-creamed-swiss-chard-recipe/) - If you're wondering how to cook Swiss chard, I have a recipe for you. In fact, this creamed Swiss chard recipe is a huge hit with my whole family, including four kids! Our creamed Swiss chard recipe is a simplified version of this delicious recipe. The result is an easier way to cook Swiss chard
- [7 Benefits of Backyard Chickens](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/17/benefits-backyard-chickens/) - Thinking about getting backyard chickens? I considered it for YEARS. We lived in an apartment in Rome when the idea first hit me but now that we're nestled into our mini farm in North Carolina, having backyard chickens is one of those dreams that sounded so fun...and it totally is! 7 Things I love About
- [homemade chicken nuggets](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/29/homemade-chicken-nuggets/) - THIS ONE TIME, WHEN OUR KIDS WERE MISBEHAVING, we used a bribe to get them back on track. And these nuggets were part of it. A delicious part. The problem: Whining, crying, tantruming, taking the other person's sunglasses, wearing them upside down and shouting on a loop, "It's actually mine! It's actually mine!" The solution:
- [Why are my kids such picky eaters? (And is it my fault?)](https://foodlets.com/2021/04/28/why-are-kids-picky/) - Why are kids such picky eaters, indeed. If you’ve ever sat at the dinner table asking yourself what in the sweet name of Ina Garten is going on with this child, you are not alone. Eating is one of my favorite things! You’d think I’d asked these mutinous littles to clean the bathroom with their
- [No-Rise Whole-Wheat Pizza Dough](https://foodlets.com/2018/09/18/easy-whole-wheat-pizza-dough/) - I always put making homemade whole-wheat pizza dough in the same category as making your own milk. From cows you raised. Same amount of effort, right? But I was wrong. So wrong. Making homemade whole-wheat pizza dough is actually one of the easiest things I've ever done in my kitchen. Check these out grid-nigeria .
- [the cutest texas bbq you'll ever see: kennedy's first birthday party!](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/09/the-cutest-texas-bbq-youll-ever-see-kennedys-first-birthday-party/) - ON A COLD, RAINY DAY IN NORTH CAROLINA, I can't help but grin looking at these adorable first birthday party photos, sent in by the mother of our newest Featured Foodlet, Kennedy. Find out how her mom pulled off the cutest BBQ bash of the year. Name of the birthday girl: Kennedy Parents: Breanne and
- [Apple Nachos](https://foodlets.com/2021/04/20/apple-nachos/) - My kids eat more apples than anyone I've ever met. Full of fiber and vitamins, it's a great habit. But when we want to get really fancy, we make apple nachos. With peanut butter, caramel and fudge sauce drizzled over the top. Apple nachos are the BEST dessert for a crowd of kids. No cooking
- [Veggie-Filled Tomato Sauce for Pasta, Pizza & More](https://foodlets.com/2018/02/28/veggie-filled-tomato-sauce-for-pasta-pizza-more/) - When I started experimenting with a veggie-filled tomato sauce to add to pizza and pasta, I knew it needed to be FULL of good-for-you ingredients but all the sweet potatoes in the world wouldn't matter if the result wasn't tasty. I have four small kids, ages three, five, seven and eight and whether anyone will
- [sandwiches on a stick](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/11/sandwiches-on-a-stick/) - FOOD ON A STICK has got to be the easiest way to make food fun. (Except for maybe making parfaits with yogurt, chili, whatever...but I digress!) It was our turn to bring the preschool snack again and we picked these little sandwiches on a stick, which could certainly work for lunch too. I liked that we
- [spicy pasta with chicken, spinach and goat cheese](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/30/spicy-pasta-with-chicken-spinach-and-goat-cheese/) - I'M BREAKING A PRETTY BIG RULE HERE. The idea of making two meals, one for the kids and another for the adults, is just too exhausting for me to even consider on most days. But for our Halloween lunch, I decided to spare the moms those mummy turkey dogs. Instead we adapted a recipe from
- [The best roast beef sandwiches you'll ever have](https://foodlets.com/2012/11/08/the-best-roast-beef-sandwiches-you-will-ever-have/) - THESE PLAYDATE SANDWICHES WERE MADE WITH ON-THE-GO EATING IN MIND. Admittedly, they were more for the moms and dads than kids--who got turkey sammies smothered with honey mustard and mayo spread--but on this blustery fall day in Rome, every parent not only commented on how good they were, but couldn't stop talking about the roast
- [Cherry Tomato Candy Pasta](https://foodlets.com/2021/04/14/cherry-tomato-candy-pasta/) - Move over homemade mac & cheese. This cherry tomato candy pasta is my kids' new favorite pasta! We learned the recipe from Samin Nosrat (who wrote the excellent cookbook "Salt, Fat, Heat, Acid") when she made it on the adorable Netflix kids' show Waffles + Mochi. The secret is: roasting the tomatoes first. When you
- [5 Tips for Traveling with babies & toddlers, Plus 25 On-the-go snack ideas](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/14/traveling-with-babies-toddlers-on-the-go-snack-ideas/) - Need snack ideas for traveling with babies or toddlers? Since we live overseas, this post will be geared toward plane travel but it all works for for car trips too. The point is, it's a long way and the last thing you want to worry about is who's hungry, and whether it's worth buying a
- [Easy Green Bean Recipe: The One Kids Will Eat!](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/16/easy-green-bean-recipe-the-one-kids-will-eat/) - This easy green bean recipe has earned a place in my heart...because my kids will eat it! Every time. Use fresh or frozen green beans but don't skimp on the garlic. That's the secret ingredient that makes these green beans sing. Just ask the kids. How to Make this Easy Green Bean Recipe Kids Will
- [Tuna nicoise potato salad, Italian style](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/01/tuna-nicoise-salad-italian-style/) - I KNOW WHAT YOU'RE THINKING. What kids eat salad? For dinner? If serving a fresh potato salad isn't in the cards for your crew, consider using the same ingredients to create a plate that works for everyone, without a lot of extra effort on your part. (Also, French kids eat salad. Really!) The ingredients for
- [Honey Recipes Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2021/04/10/honey-recipes-kids-love/) - We have backyard beehives and that means with a little luck, we have nice, fresh honey! That's where our favorite honey recipes come in. Here is what we like to use our honey for. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Foodlets (@foodlets) 6 Honey Recipes Kids Love 1. Honey-Sweetened Banana Muffins From
- [4 Ingredient Protein-Packed Peach Smoothies](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/14/protein-packed-peach-smoothies/) - SMOOTHIES. AN EASY SNACK FOR KIDS. A healthy snack for kids. What's not to love? Plus, smoothies are so versatile. If you want something refreshing that won't ruin the kids' appetites before dinner, blend up this combination: 1 banana 2 cups frozen fruit, in this case peaches 1 cup milk 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
- [How to Compost: A Quick Guide to Getting Started](https://foodlets.com/2021/04/09/how-to-compost/) - Learning how to compost changed my family's life--and our garden too! Did you know that food is the single largest contributor to landfills in America? Composting can fix that. And your garden (or shrubs) will get a rich and hearty fertilizer, for free! Here's how you can get started. Green + Brown = Gold There
- [healthier fish & chips for kids](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/20/healthier-fish-chips-for-kids/) - THE LAST TIME I HAD FISH & CHIPS--AND THE FIRST TIME THE KIDS EVER HAD IT--WAS IN LONDON. Doesn't that sound lovely? Except, the rest of my memories include being very, very sick. No, not food poisoning, just the flu. But the worst flu, and even worse timing. We were actually moving from Rome to
- [A 2-Minute, Healthy AND Adorable Veggie Platter for Spring](https://foodlets.com/2016/03/13/the-2-minute-snack-thatll-make-your-kids-love-carrots-a-2-ingredient-carrot-platter/) - Who said Easter treats had to be all jelly beans and chocolate? Actually, that my have been my kids. But anyway... You can imagine my surprise at how willing they were to eat inhale this 100% vegetable snack the other day. It's amazingly easy, took 2 minutes to make...and about the same to devour. Which was fine
- [how to make hens out of hard boiled eggs](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/03/how-to-make-easter-hens-out-of-hard-boiled-eggs/) - I KNOW, I KNOW. I just said no thanks to any projects that make me feel worse about myself than the crafting boards on Pinterest already do. But as we continue our internet-inspired Easter roundup, I'm happy to report these little chicks are surprisingly simple to make. True story. And if I can do it, you can too. Here's a
- [The Cutest Way to Make Rice Krispies Treats for Easter](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/01/plastic-eggs-rice-krispies-treats-the-easiest-easter-idea-of-all/) - THERE ARE TONS OF ELABORATE EASTER IDEAS FOR KIDS OUT THERE, but this isn't one of them. These are basic Rice Krispies Treats tucked inside plastic eggs. They're so simple, so sweet and you know what, just as tasty as I remembered them being. Usually I try to go for "healthy" ideas but with three
- [one giant easter egg, coming up! just start with sugar cookie dough](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/09/giant-sugar-cookie-easter-egg/) - ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER EASY IDEA FOR EASTER. You may not realize just how big this cookie is and I couldn't take a photo with the munchkins nearby for fear of one toddler's roaming fingers. But don't worry about those guys, they'll dig in soon. This cookie is more than a foot long, totally impressive in
- [Easy Little Lamb Cake](https://foodlets.com/2017/07/06/easy-little-lamb-cake/) - Decorating this little lamb cake was one of the easiest kids' birthday cakes I've ever made. With just about the most adorable results. When I saw this lamb marshmallow cake I online, I had to wonder: Is it really as simple as it looks or am I going to end up with a whopper of a
- [Easy Cupcake Ideas: Little Lambs](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/09/easy-cupcake-ideas-little-lambs/) - Here comes a new series just in time for birthday season and it's called...easy cupcake ideas! To start off, we've got little lambs. The fun of easy cupcake ideas is that they're adorable AND doable, even when kids want to help. You can count on every idea here being one that you can easily source
- [Easy Cupcake Ideas: Chocolate Coconut Bird Nests](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/10/easy-cupcake-ideas-chocolate-coconut-bird-nests/) - Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best and that's true for our series of Easy Cupcake Ideas, including Chocolate Coconut Bird Nest Cupcakes! These cupcakes can be made with a variety of pantry staples but this is my favorite method. What you need to make chocolate coconut bird nests Cupcakes (from a mix or try
- [Double Chocolate Baked Oatmeal Recipe](https://foodlets.com/2021/04/07/double-chocolate-baked-oatmeal-recipe/) - Do your kids love oatmeal as much as mine do? What about cake? I ask because this hearty baked oatmeal recipe comes together in minutes AND tastes like cake. Chocolate cake. Bake in the oven or zap in the microwave! Either way is delicious. What You Need to Make This Double Chocolate Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- [20 Lunch Box Ideas That Aren't Sandwiches](https://foodlets.com/2019/08/19/lunch-box-ideas/) - With four kids in school, you can bet I've packed my share of lunch boxes! There's nothing wrong with sandwiches but when you want to change things up (or use up leftovers) here are my kids FAVORITE lunch box ideas that break out of the school lunch rut. Also, these are their real lunch boxes,
- [Healthy School Lunch Ideas](https://foodlets.com/2015/08/04/healthy-school-lunch-ideas/) - Are your kids getting 5 servings of fruit & vegetables a day? That's what experts recommend. At least. Sound hard? That's where our healthy school lunch ideas come in. About lunch boxes My four kids love their PlanetBox lunchboxes. Made out of stainless steel, they're practically indestructible and boy do they make food look nice.
- [How to Pack Awesome School Lunches Easily](https://foodlets.com/2014/08/15/how-to-pack-awesome-and-easy-school-lunches/) - *Updated* IT'S OFFICIAL. We now have 3 school-aged rascals in our house now. That, plus a seriously long school day (8am to 3:15), means a big change around here: three kids bringing school lunches every day. I've been making healthy, diverse and colorful lunches for these rascals for a while now and here are the techniques that make it
- [10 Dinner Leftovers that Make Great Kids' Lunches](https://foodlets.com/2015/05/08/dinner-leftovers-that-make-great-kids-lunches/) - I know, where was this post 8 months ago? Dinner leftovers that make great kids' lunches is the kind of information that would've been useful...earlier. These so-simple lunch ideas for kids will get us through the remaining weeks of school and don't worry. Kids will still want lunch again in September, or August when our school begins
- [5 Simple Ways to Make School Lunches Special](https://foodlets.com/2015/08/10/5-so-simple-ways-to-make-school-lunches-special/) - It's lunch box season again! I pack lunches for 3 of our 4 small kids. Every day. One is (going to be) a first grader this year; the other two are preschoolers. (And the baby eats with me.) Last year I shared my strategy for packing school lunches without going crazy, including all the foods my
- [Lunchbox hits and misses: Pictures of my 6-year-old's school lunches before & after](https://foodlets.com/2015/09/16/5-school-lunches-before-and-after/) - Does your child's lunchbox come home half eaten? Are you struggling to find the right balance between Nutritious Food to Keep Them Going and Stuff They'll Actually Eat? Me too. But I've figured a few things out. Since our goal at Foodlets is raising kids who love real food--and we're right in the thick of
- [Real school lunches: 5 days of healthy, fast lunches ideas for preschoolers and young kids](https://foodlets.com/2016/08/09/real-school-lunches-5-days-of-healthy-fast-lunches-ideas/) - It's time to pack school lunches again! This year I have two elementary aged girls plus two preschoolers and I'm packing healthy lunches for ALL of them. Which means things need to be quick. Packing for four also means the potential for a LOT of waste, so I'm sharing our kids' favorites from the week. These
- [5 Healthy School Lunches Kids Can Make Themselves: Peanut Butter + Tortillas](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/04/school-lunches-kids-can-make-themselves-peanut-butter-tortillas/) - I let my three elementary school aged kids make their own lunches for a week and here's what happened. Everyone packed a fresh and healthy lunch--and everyone ATE that fresh and healthy lunch. They felt totally proud of themselves. It wasn't no-work on my end but I can see how this will eventually get them
- [5 Healthy School Lunches Kids Can Make Themselves (With Chicken Breasts & Sausage)](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/08/5-healthy-school-lunches-kids-can-make-themselves-with-chicken-breasts-sausage/) - You guys, I was so tired of packing lunches. And school hadn't even started again yet. So this year I'm trying something different. It's called Kids Pack Their Own Lunches. We're on Week 2. It works like this: On the weekend I cut up 5-6 kinds of fruit and veggies and store them on a
- [Week 3: 5 Healthy Lunches Kids Can Pack Themselves with Eggs & Mini Mozzarella Balls](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/15/5-healthy-lunches-kids-can-make-with-eggs-mini-mozzarella-balls/) - This year we started a new strategy for school lunches. It's called "3 Small Kids Pack Their Own Lunches, Even the Kindergartener". Subtitle: "So Mommy Doesn't Go Crazy." Guess how it's going? Surprisingly well! In this third installment, we've got a week's worth of healthy lunch ideas, focusing on two main ingredients: mini mozzarella balls
- [Instant Lunchbox Cornbread Muffins with Turkey Sausage & Spinach](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/14/instant-lunchbox-cornbread-muffins-with-turkey-sausage-spinach/) - My kids love cornbread. I make a honey-whole-wheat cornbread that's packed with good-for-you ingredients and every time I do, everyone squeals. With de-light. But I don't always have time to bake all the things from scratch. And I'm guessing you don't either. That's why I love these Instant Lunchbox Cornbread Muffins because drumroll please... You
- [These Quiche Cups with Tomatoes, Cheese & Spinach are a hit for Dinner + School Lunches Too](https://foodlets.com/2018/02/27/wonton-wrapper-quiche-cups-with-tomatoes-cheese-spinach-for-dinner-then-lunch-too/) - Make these quiche cups for dinner and you've also got school lunches ready to go later in the week! I like to pair these hand-held quiches with a big salad on warm days or a deliciously simple soup on cold nights like we're having now. Last night we had "Fairy Soup", which starts with a
- [Eat more fruit: National Mediterranean Diet Month](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/01/eat-more-fruit-national-mediterranean-diet-month/) - WE'RE ALREADY CELEBRATING AT OUR HOUSE. As citizens of Rome, the olive oil runs free in our kitchen and even 23-month old Phoebe will ask for it if she can't see it oozing off her bread. So I'm glad to hear that the US is getting into the action with National Mediterranean Diet Month. Mostly
- [Welcome to Plain Pasta, Can I Take Your Order?](https://foodlets.com/2018/07/09/welcome-to-plain-pasta-can-i-take-your-order/) - I saw comedian Tom Papa read this excerpt on Conan and laughed so hard I nearly cried. Because who hasn't nearly cried when trying to feed their kids? It ain't easy, all this trying to instill values and habits of good nutrition, but at least today it's hilarious. From his book, "Your Dad Stole My
- [Lemon and Blueberry Puff Pastry Tart from "Super Simple Baking for Kids"](https://foodlets.com/2019/02/20/lemon-blueberry-tart-super-simple-baking-for-kids/) - Our kids have started taking turns cooking dinner on Sunday nights. It's adorable and guess which dessert they're all dying to make again? This Lemon and Blueberry Puff Pastry Tart from Super Simple Baking for Kids! I say AGAIN because my little rascals helped test every single recipe in my book, Super Simple Baking for
- [21 Super Nourishing Meals For Kids](https://foodlets.com/2021/01/26/21-super-nourishing-meals-for-kids/) - Most of us want our kids to eat healthier, but it's almost always about finding the time. Searching for recipes and ingredients, then trying new techniques that always take longer than something we've done before. And the biggest hurdle of all, eating healthier as a family ultimately comes down to one thing: will the kids
- [Flower Garden Graham Cracker Snacks](https://foodlets.com/2021/03/30/flower-garden-graham-cracker-snacks/) - We tried the viral flower garden graham cracker snacks from Pinterest and not only were they a blast for the kids to make, but a tasty little treat too! I love a cute little food craft to get kids excited about food and these flower graham crackers hit the target. What You Need to Make
- [Chicken & White Bean Chili with Swiss Chard: My 4 Kids' Favorite Way to Eat Swiss Chard](https://foodlets.com/2016/06/22/chicken-white-bean-chili-with-swiss-chard-my-4-kids-favorite-way-to-eat-swiss-chard/) - I did it again. With the Swiss chard in the garden. It always starts so small, this Swiss chard project. Just a handful of tiny seeds, some dirt that I bought dirt from a farmer down the road who swears it's organic and more than a little hope. (Honestly, buying dirt? That's when you know your farming dream has gotten
- [Raising Baby Chicks: 6 Things You Need to Get Started](https://foodlets.com/2021/03/08/raising-baby-chicks-get-started/) - We've had backyard chickens for four years and started with raising baby chicks. Back then I wondered what we needed to get started and couldn't find a good list that was specific but also not so loaded with incidentals that we might never be able to afford it. Here is what you need to get
- [What to Eat for Easter Dinner with Kids: 3 Menus Depending on How Tired You Are](https://foodlets.com/2021/03/27/what-to-eat-for-easter-with-kids-3-menus/) - Easter is coming up and we have plans to share the celebration with another family, plus both sets of grandparents. We'll have an egg hunt, plus a couple of other games to keep the kids busy. But for the main event on Easter, we're working on a kid-friendly menu for 14. Menu 1: Low-Key Easter
- [Waffles + Mochi is "Sesame Street" for Little Foodies...but Better](https://foodlets.com/2021/03/26/waffles-mochi-sesame-street-little-foodies/) - If you come for Michelle Obama's magnetic poise, like I did, you'll stay for the array of entertainment packed into one little show for kids. Simply dazzling. Netflix gives us music, animation, kid-friendly recipes from famous chefs plus two little food loving puppets you can't help but root for, called of course, Waffles and Mochi.
- [Roasted Cabbage Wedges Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2021/03/24/roasted-cabbage-wedges-kids-love/) - Roasted cabbage wedges are the side dish that your kids will love. "This tastes like butter!" That's how my 6YO describes roasted cabbage. Like all of our other favorite roasted vegetables, the edges are crispy and the middle is soft. But the full effect is so much more. Roasted vegetables are sweet and salty, crunchy
- [My Favorite Pasta Recipe I Learned Living in Italy: Amatriciana](https://foodlets.com/2016/02/20/my-favorite-pasta-recipe-i-learned-living-in-italy-amatriciana/) - If you came to visit me when we lived in Rome, I would've made you this pasta. That's because it's my favorite pasta recipe I learned living in Italy: Amatriciana. Like many of the world's most delicious recipes Italian recipes are awfully easy, this one begins with bacon. Except in Rome it's pancetta. That smokey flavor
- [Reindeer Snickerdoodles: Simple Christmas Cookies Kids Can Make](https://foodlets.com/2015/11/24/reindeer-snickerdoodles-simple-christmas-cookies-kids-can-make/) - I love easy Christmas cookies kids can make and these Reindeer Snickerdoodles do not disappoint! Two were mailed off to my step-father, who has Parkinson's and lives in a round-the-clock care facility. Looking for a way to spread a little cheer, my mom told me that snickerdoodles and sugar cookies are his favorite. You get
- [What If I Didn't Put Myself Last?](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/07/what-if-i-didnt-put-myself-last/) - It came out of nowhere, as wakeup calls often do. My seven-year-old’s playdate was over. The little girl’s dad and I stood in my living room chatting while shoes were gathered and teary goodbyes said. That’s when small talk turned into a very humbling Q and A. “Hey, who’s that woman?” he asked, pointing to
- [One-Pot Taco Mac & Cheese](https://foodlets.com/2021/03/09/one-pot-taco-mac-cheese/) - Our newest version of macaroni and cheese adds the flavor of tacos and does it all in one pan. That's one-pot taco mac and cheese! You won't believe the secret ingredient that turns regular mac and cheese into this taco-flavored favorite...salsa. What you need to make taco mac & cheese pastataco filling (ground beef, ground
- [Chicken with Cabbage and Olives Sheet Pan Dinner](https://foodlets.com/2021/03/08/chicken-with-cabbage-and-olives-sheet-pan-dinner/) - Is there anything better than a sheet pan dinner where everything cooks politely in one pan? How about a sheet pan dinner that's hearty, something you feel good about serving AND a dinner that everyone likes! Our sheet pan chicken with cabbage and olives is exactly that. What you need for this sheet pan chicken,
- [DIY "Kind" Bars](https://foodlets.com/2015/01/13/diy-kind-bars/) - CONFESSION: SOMETIMES I HIDE THE GOOD STUFF FROM MY KIDS. No, I don't mean the chocolate. Because that's OBVIOUS. My stash is in the freezer where I can get to it the moment nap time begins. No, I mean those delightful but expensive Kind bars. Usually I buy granola bars for the kids and I stick
- [Whole-Wheat Honey Muffins](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/15/whole-wheat-honey-muffins/) - This Saturday I'll be cooking two honey-rich recipes at our local farmer's market: Honey-Mustard Chicken and these brand new Whole-Wheat Honey Muffins. It's is my fourth and final appearance of the year and it's been a blast. Hope I get the chance to do it again next spring and summer! If you want to use
- [One-Pot Cheesy Sausage Rigatoni](https://foodlets.com/2021/02/25/one-pot-sausage-rigatoni/) - One-pot sausage rigatoni means you don't have to cook the pasta separately. It's literally only one pot. Pasta, plus sauce all together. If that's not a busy parent's dream, I don't know what is. Unless it's a crowd-pleasing dinner every loves, like this one. What You Need to Make One-Pot Cheesy Sausage Rigatoni sausage (we
- [How to Make Kale Chips: An Easy Recipe Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2021/02/24/how-to-make-kale-chips-easy-recipe-kids/) - Kale chips are the perfect kale starter food. For kids (or adults) who don't like vegetables, I defy them to turn these down. Crispy, salty and satisfying -- not to mention packed with nutrients -- this kind of kale will make believers out of your brood. What You Need to Make Kale Chips It's a
- [Make-Ahead Breakfast Pockets with Egg, Cheese & Ham](https://foodlets.com/2012/11/29/make-ahead-breakfast-pockets-with-egg-cheese-ham/) - For a delicious breakfast that comes together in a snap, you can't beat these breakfast pockets full of eggs, ham and cheese. Plus the whole thing can be assembled ahead of time and baked when you're good and ready. What you need to make breakfast pockets with eggs, ham & cheese 1 package of 8
- [Poached eggs with hash brown potatoes and peppers](https://foodlets.com/2012/06/28/poached-eggs-with-potatoes-and-peppers/) - BREAKFAST FOR DINNER is one of our go-to techniques for dinner in a hurry. Now that we've got a third Foodlet on-hand, make that in-arms, cooking can be a little more complicated. As in, how can I make dinner and look after the toddler, preschooler and newborn baby without anyone accidentally getting grilled in the
- [spooky spider eggs](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/22/spooky-spider-eggs/) - THIS IS MY SECOND FAVORITE PINTEREST IDEA, from our Healthy-ish Halloween Ideas for Kids board. Like the string cheese witches' brooms, they're absolutely adorable but also...shockingly easy. My girls are egg people. They love eggs. Hard boiled eggs. Egg salad sandwiches. Scrambled eggs. So I knew this would be a hit. And it was. For
- [baked eggs, an easy dinner the kids cheer for](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/13/simple-baked-eggs-an-easy-dinner-the-kids-cheer-for/) - MY MOTHER-IN-LAW is a very good cook, and this easy egg dish, like zucchini lasagna, whole wheat jam tarts and these good-for-you cookies, is one we learned from her. With three grown kids and six grandchildren of her own, she knows all about cooking for a brood. She made it for us on a recent visit to
- [Whole-Wheat Baked Pancake with Fresh Peaches](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/09/whole-wheat-baked-pancake-with-fresh-peaches/) - I LOVE MARTHA STEWART, I JUST DO. Always have and I'm sure I always will. A version of this delicious pancake appeared in a recent issue of her magazine and with a bushel of peaches awaiting their orders in our garage, I was inspired to make a big pancake of our own--and think back to happy
- [Whole-Wheat Apple Cookies with Lemon Glaze](https://foodlets.com/2016/01/05/whole-wheat-apple-cookies-with-lemon-glaze/) - "It's the lemon glaze that really makes them," my mother-in-law told me. And she was right. These whole-wheat apple cookies with lemon glaze are amazing. She should know, she made them! They aren't quite good for you (because of said icing) but man, are these cookies a great way to round out a tea party, any
- [Whole-Wheat Cheddar Biscuits With Bacon](https://foodlets.com/2018/07/24/whole-wheat-cheddar-biscuits-with-or-without-bacon/) - The idea for these Whole-Wheat Cheddar & Bacon Biscuits came from one of my favorite women in the world, Joanna Gaines. In her gorgeous book, Magnolia Table, she's got a different version. Instead of white flour and gruyere, our biscuits are whole-wheat and full of sharp cheddar. Better for you and easier to come by,
- [Whole-Wheat Banana Bread with a Dash of Chocolate](https://foodlets.com/2021/02/05/whole-wheat-banana-bread-chocolate/) - We love banana bread around here. We've got a simple, dependable and decadent banana bread recipe plus honey-sweetened banana muffins with coconut oil and even a banana-zucchini bread. But I love the extra fiber (that keeps kids satisfied for longer) in our new whole-wheat banana bread. Don't get me wrong. This isn't health food. But
- [Whole-Wheat Mini Tomato Galettes](https://foodlets.com/2021/02/22/whole-wheat-mini-tomato-galettes/) - These whole-wheat mini tomato galettes are a delicious lunch kids absolutely love. With a whole-wheat crust that comes together quick (and freezes like a dream) you can fill them with any combination of: fresh cherry tomatoescheese (cheddar, goat, feta)sweet cornbeans (white beans or chick peas) This delicious lunch (or light dinner) is a cross between
- [Healthy Waffle Recipe](https://foodlets.com/2020/06/11/healthy-waffle-recipe/) - Can a recipe for waffles be healthy? Confession: When my six-year-old showed up at my bed asking for waffles this morning, I groaned. Waffles are a pain to make and the recipe is not very healthy...until now! At Foodlets, my mission is creating new versions of favorite family foods. That's how we'll raise kids who
- [Peanut Butter and Jelly Pancake Bake](https://foodlets.com/2021/02/19/peanut-butter-and-jelly-pancake-bake/) - This super fluffy peanut butter and jelly pancake bake has swirls of peanut butter and jam right on top. Basically heaven in the oven. Have you been watching Nadiya Hussain's shows on Netflix? She's a previous winner of the Great British Baking Show--and we couldn't love her bakes more. Snuggled around the couch, my kids
- [Healthy Party Food for Kids: DIY Raw Veggie Cups](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/04/diy-raw-veggie-cups/) - Party food for kids needs to be festive. Fun! Colorful! Fresh! And with any shred of hope, simple. Nothing says "Happy Birthday" like getting so stressed out about entertaining a group of kids that I'm shrieking at my own offspring all morning long. Enter veggie cups. We discovered kid-friendly raw veggies served in cups with a dollop of Ranch dressing
- [Christmas Tree Grapes & Cheese Platter](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/15/christmas-tree-grapes-cheese-platter/) - IS THERE A KIDS' HOLIDAY PARTY GOING ON near you? Our kindergartener's class is hosting a holiday party at the end of the week. When our Room Parent emailed everyone asking about a healthy, low-sugar snack, this Christmas tree platter made of grapes and cheese immediately came to mind. Storing grapes properly is one of the important
- [Strawberry Overnight Oats](https://foodlets.com/2021/02/03/strawberry-overnight-oats-healthy-breakfast-kids/) - It's official. Strawberry Overnight Oats are the kids' favorite new breakfast. We've made (and loved) Chia Seed Pudding for years. And don't forget my oldest daughter's favorite Fresh, Fruity Summer Porridge. We do Apple Pie Oatmeal in the microwave and use the slow cooker for Double Chocolate Steel Cut Oats. But this super simple technique
- [A Heart-Shaped Strawberries, Cheese & Crackers Board 3 (Easy) Ways: Healthy Valentine's Day Snacks for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/12/a-heart-shaped-strawberry-cheese-crackers-board-3-easy-ways/) - I WARNED YOU. If you follow Foodlets on Facebook (and I hope you do), you'll see that I posted a strawberry, cheese & crackers board for Valentine's Day...and vowed to do it again. Here's the first one. But first, one quick note about the ups and downs of fresh strawberries. It's not strawberry season in
- [3-Ingredient Silky Strawberry Milk (None of them is Sugar)](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/26/3-ingredient-silky-strawberry-milk-none-of-them-is-sugar/) - I love a good Valentine's Day treat, but the last thing I want on a busy morning is four kids hopped up on sugar. Enter, this 3-ingredient silky strawberry milk. Not one of those ingredients is sugar. But all of them are delicious. What you need to make 3-ingredient strawberry milk Milk Strawberries (frozen or
- [Simple Strawberry Chia Seed Hand Pies...for Breakfast!](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/30/simple-strawberry-chia-seed-hand-pies-for-breakfast/) - It's hard to go wrong with a generous layer of strawberry fruit spread combined with tiny chia seeds, mingling together inside a warm, flaky crust. But what makes these strawberry chia seed hand pies good for breakfast? The whole combination is surprisingly nutritious. With three simple ingredients, you get a make-ahead breakfast full of protein,
- [Double Strawberry Heart-Shaped Toast](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/30/double-strawberry-heart-shaped-toast/) - "THEY'RE SHAPED LIKE HEARTS!" That was the squeal at breakfast this morning. And that's only the first piece of good news. The second is this: If you can slice a strawberry, you can make double strawberry heart-shaped toast in minutes. What you need for double strawberry heart-shaped toast Toast (I like the more whole-wheat the
- [Chocolate Granola Bars from "Super Simple Baking for Kids"](https://foodlets.com/2019/02/18/chocolate-granola-bars-from-super-simple-baking-for-kids/) - I'm so excited about my new book, Super Simple Baking for Kids! My kids personally tested more than 55 easy recipes until we found the best combination of doable and delicious...every time. Here's one of my favorite recipes from the book, Chocolate Granola Bars. Chocolate Granola Bars from Super Simple Baking for Kids What you
- [5 Easy Bread Recipes for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2020/03/18/easy-bread-recipes-for-kids/) - It doesn't get better than easy bread recipes for kids! Nothing is more satisfying than making your own bread, especially when you're baking with little guys. You can check some more food items at bridge. Here you'll find easy recipes for bread, pretzels, rolls and more. Every one of them has been tested again and
- [How to Roast Frozen Cauliflower (That No One Can Resist!)](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/24/how-to-roast-frozen-cauliflower/) - Yes, you can roast frozen cauliflower. For everyone who doesn't like vegetables -- and those who live with (or parent) them -- this recipe is for you. In fact, if you try cooking ONE NEW vegetable this year, make it roasted frozen cauliflower. How to make roasted cauliflower from a bag of frozen cauliflower The
- [The case for playing instead of "exercising": How to hook your kids on staying fit for life](https://foodlets.com/2017/01/18/the-case-for-playing-instead-of-exercising-how-to-hook-your-kids-on-staying-fit-for-life/) - Our kids don't "exercise", they play. And it makes all the difference. As part of this month's focus on teaching kids to take care of their bodies, today we're talking movement! The Mayo Clinic says kids need 60 minutes of exercise a day (but not continuously) to thrive. But it almost sounds ominous. Like another
- [Best Chores for Kids of All Ages](https://foodlets.com/2021/02/03/best-chores-for-kids-of-all-ages/) - We've all seen those charts with chores for kids. The ones where each section shows you exactly what a two-year-old might do, next to a color coded section for your slightly more reliable eight-year-old. And another section still should you have a tween at home. But as a mom of four kids, I want to
- [Kid-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala in the Slow Cooker](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/06/one-pot-slow-cooker-chicken-tikka-masala/) - This is beginner Chicken Tikka Masala, the kind that bubbles away in the slow cooker all afternoon. That's because my kids don't do spicy. Actually, I don't even like a lot of spice myself. I remember growing up and thinking most toothpaste was "too hot". But man, do I love a nice bowl of Chicken
- [Pan roasted chicken with apples](https://foodlets.com/2010/11/01/pan-roasted-chicken-with-apples/) - IT'S DINNER TIME AND it's fall and that means...apples. This recipe was featured in my most recent Food Network magazine (which I actually love, for many reasons, but won't go into that now). It's simple, seasonal and really good! For Honey-Mustard Chicken and Apples, you brown the chicken thighs (which are juicier, cheaper and more
- [Impossibly Silky Broccoli Spinach Soup with a Surprise Shortcut](https://foodlets.com/2021/01/28/silky-broccoli-spinach-soup/) - This impossibly smooth and creamy broccoli spinach soup comes together in about 20 minutes. That's because, like in many of our other soup recipes kids love, we use frozen broccoli, frozen spinach and frozen onions. Yes! No chopping means getting this velvety soup -- that just happens to be packed with veggies -- into kids
- [Roasted fish with potatoes](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/28/roasted-fish-with-potatoes/) - IF YOU'RE NOT A FISH PERSON--more importantly, if your kids aren't--this dish is for you. Tender and mild, the fish fillets simply roast under a bed of thinly sliced potatoes slathered with olive oil plus fresh rosemary and lemon. The flavors are subtle yet the dish feels hearty. Decidedly not fishy. In fact, my toddler
- [The Mini Foodie Gift Guide: Food-Themed Holiday Gifts for Kids (Plus a Few Ideas for Parents, Too)](https://foodlets.com/2015/11/18/the-mini-foodie-gift-guide-food-themed-holiday-gifts-for-kids-plus-a-few-ideas-for-parents-too/) - Christmas stockings are part of my master plan. As I try to mold and shape our kids into half pints who love real food, who value good food and who enjoy food together, I find that including a few awesome treats helps establish a positive (if not downright giddy) association with food. Speaking of kids, if
- [What Food Banks Need Most (And What They Can't Use)](https://foodlets.com/2014/11/18/what-food-banks-need-most-and-what-they-get-too-much-of/) - Food banks can make the most out of cash donations but if you want to donate food, this is what food banks across the country need most: WHAT FOOD BANKS NEED MOST (Updated 2020) Soups, especially hearty meals like chili or stew Canned meat: chicken, tuna, ham, Vienna sausages Canned vegetables: potatoes, collard greens, beans,
- [5 great kids' books about food](https://foodlets.com/2011/11/19/5-great-kids-books-about-food/) - IT'S NEARLY GIFT GIVING TIME and if you've got a picky eater, or a great little eater for that matter, on your list, maybe one of these could make its way into a stocking. 1. I Like Vegetables. As though the title alone weren't enough to sell a gal like me, the images are just
- [5 ways to make any dessert recipe a little healthier](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/16/5-ways-to-make-any-holiday-dessert-recipe-healthier/) - IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR. Once the tree goes up, the Christmas cookies come out and most of us, my pregnant self included, aren't kidding around when it comes to enjoying the festivities! But if you want to avoid a sugar-induced meltdown (or two, or seven...) for the smaller members of the household here are
- [5 ways to teach toddlers table manners](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/25/5-ways-to-teach-toddlers-table-manners/) - Around here, my aim is to make healthy, delicious food, both with and for kids so they'll grow up to cook themselves, and better yet, enjoy sitting around a table full of family and friends for years to come. Here on Foodlets I've got tips (let the kids help cook) and tricks (grate vegetables and
- [How to eat dinner with a toddler (or small children of any kind) without losing your mind](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/04/how-to-eat-dinner-with-a-toddler-or-baby-or-small-children-of-any-kind-without-losing-your-mind/) - IT'S SUCH A DREAM, the Family Dinner. From the moment I saw my first ultrasound, I could see it so clearly. A happy family sits around a table: In my fantasy we're a boisterously cheerful bunch, passing heaped platters of colorful food, digging into a juicy roast chicken just as someone says something hilarious. There's
- [How to make a balanced breakfast. Don't eat it, play it! A felt game for kids](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/08/balanced-breakfast-felt-game-for-kids/) - IT'S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT THE FOOD. I saw this adorable idea on No Time for Flashcards and had to create my own. The idea behind this homemade felt game is to mix and match your way to a balanced breakfast, which is quite fun if you're 3. Now, it's just an idea so the system
- [Why I replaced the kids' plastic dishes: out with the plastic, in with the porcelain](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/13/no-more-plastic-dishes/) - Since I originally wrote this post, we've had one more addition to our family; she's 18 months old now and flings plates (and bowls) like frisbees. She's been on melamine but now, with courage plus a broom at the ready, we're breaking out the good stuff. And breaking is probably just the right word. Wish us luck.
- [how to pack amazing school lunches kids love, Katie Morford's best tips](https://foodlets.com/2013/08/19/how-to-pack-amazing-school-lunches-kids-love-katie-morfords-best-tips/) - UGH. THAT'S THE SOUND OF MOST PARENTS MAKING SCHOOL LUNCHES. But not Katie Morford. Katie heads up the popular blog, Mom's Kitchen Handbook: Raising Fresh-Food Kids in a French-Fried World and just wrote a new book with a promising title, "Best Lunch Box Ever". Brimming with fresh, creative ideas that look just as tasty as they
- [How to Cook with Toddlers & Preschoolers without Losing Your Mind](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/16/10-ways-to-cook-with-toddlers-preschoolers-and-little-kids-of-all-kinds/) - 'TIS THE SEASON FOR BAKING, and if you're in the kitchen a lot these days, that's exactly where your kids--the messy ones who don't always listen to instructions--want to be. But can be fun to cook with toddlers & preschoolers. It'll be slow and you'll have flour in places the white stuff has never seen before
- [10 real ingredient, packaged foods this food blogger swears by](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/06/10-kid-friendly-packaged-foods-this-blogger-swears-by/) - THAT'S RIGHT, I DON'T ALWAYS COOK EVERYTHING FROM SCRATCH. Most of our meals are made from fresh, whole ingredients but not every time. Anyone with small kids (and likely those without but who can even remember those days right now?) will run out of two things at some point: time and energy. Or maybe it's just
- [We know kids eat too much junk, so why aren't more of us "Fed Up"?](https://foodlets.com/2014/05/16/we-already-know-kids-eat-too-much-sugar-so-why-arent-more-of-us-fed-up/) - How much sugar do your kids eat? And does that question make you want to hit the back button immediately? It's such a prickly subject. I'm a family food blogger and I still feel defensive just thinking about it, like my crazy button has been punched with a big, judgy finger. But this question, accusatory as it
- [12 cute kids' foods you can actually make, really!](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/01/12-cute-kids-foods-you-can-actually-make-really/) - When it comes to getting kids excited about food that doesn't involve shiny wrappers or fish-shaped crackers, I say bring on the cute. With four kids, ages 5 and under, I have only one rule in the kitchen: All ideas must be doable. (Do you hear me, Pinterest?) Kids begging for a banana while I'm
- [8 SIMPLE ways to feed kids better instantly](https://foodlets.com/2014/08/04/8-simple-updates-to-get-kids-eating-better-instantly/) - Sometimes feeding these kids reminds me of that old saying, "you can lead a horse to water but you can't make them eat anything other than dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets." Right? But the truth is, eating healthy as a family can be easier than you might think. Try these simple tips for quick results. (Number 3 even surprised
- [the real reason why family dinners are so hard](https://foodlets.com/2014/09/10/dinner-debate-why-manners-matter-more-than-recipes/) - Sometimes people say to me, "you must be such a good mom". They think I'm rocking this parenting thing, probably running circles around them, because I make such a big deal out of cooking for our kids. Guess those people have never seen my laundry room. After so many appreciate on food from people
- [food is love. pass it on.](https://foodlets.com/2014/10/08/food-is-love-pass-it-on/) - SOMETHING EXCITING IS HAPPENING. A young pastor at our church asked me a question this Sunday. I say "young" because he's the kind of guy who I used to think was, you know, just a guy. About my age. Then he said something like, "Awesome!" with just a little more pep than I expected and
- [how I cook dinner, every single night: 10 tips for getting it done faster, easier and kid-friendly too](https://foodlets.com/2014/11/04/how-to-cook-dinner-every-single-night/) - YOU KNOW HOW THE KIDS WANT DINNER EVERY NIGHT? This relentless demand is actually one of the things that TERRIFIED me before becoming a parent. In my NYC single days I often ate a PB&J or cereal for dinner. You know, with a bowl of ice cream later on. Perhaps in front of the TV. Sure, I
- [Our Kid-Friendly Thanksgiving Menu Plus Activities and Snacks](https://foodlets.com/2014/11/25/kid-friendly-thanksgiving-menu-thanksgiving-activities-thanksgiving-snacks-for-kids/) - IT'S OUR FIRST THANKSGIVING AS A FAMILY OF SIX. And since our brood now includes four kids under the age of six (including one under six months), we've got a game plan for Thursday. And two grandparents in town to help. Here's what's in store: WEDNESDAY Pick up and prep the turkey. We'll be brining
- [Experts Say Kids Aren't Getting Enough of 4 Most Important Nutritients](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/03/experts-say-kids-arent-getting-enough-of-4-most-important-nutritients/) - WITH SMALL KIDS IT CAN BE SUCH A STRUGGLE just to get them eating that sometimes nutrition gets lost in a kaleidoscope of organic cracker crumbs and leaky sippy cups. But flipping through the newest issue of Parent & Child magazine last night, this quote caught my eye. Lynn Brann, Ph.D. assistant professor of nutrition(Eiyo Nutrition)
- [Less Sugar, More Veggies, Trying New Foods & Better Carbs: Our Family Food Goals for the Year](https://foodlets.com/2015/01/07/less-sugar-more-veggies-trying-new-foods-fewer-carbs-family-food-goals-for-the-year/) - WISH YOUR FAMILY WOULD EAT BETTER? I feel the same way about mine. Looking for inspiration myself, I recently asked you guys, "When it comes to family food goals this year, what do you want to work on?" Then I posted a quick list on Facebook: Less sugar More veggies Trying new things More fiber & whole
- [how to save time in the kitchen](https://foodlets.com/2015/01/21/how-to-save-time-in-the-kitchen/) - I CAN'T ARGUE WITH HIM. In his book "Cooked", Michael Pollan says "The most important thing you can do with your health is cook." He says things like this a lot, and he doesn't mean adding wheat germ to everything. "Eat anything you want," he explains in this great little animated RSA video. "Just cook it yourself." Cooking at home
- [7 Easy Cooking Projects for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/18/7-easy-cooking-projects-for-kids/) - BECAUSE THERE ARE SEVERAL SMALL PEOPLE in my house, I usually stick to straightforward recipes. But every once in a while a recipe is so simple the kids can practically cook it themselves. Those are the best. Armed with aprons, patience and a few more tips for cooking with small kids, here are a few of
- [10 Ways to Introduce Veggies to Veggie-Phobes](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/04/introducing-veggies-to-vegi-phobes/) - GETTING KIDS TO EAT MORE VEGGIES IS NOT EASY. We have four small kids. One of them is a baby and at that magical stage where she opens her mouth like a little bird as I drop in spoonfuls of veggies. It's so satisfying. I give her food, she eats it. But the other three? They have opinions. The opinions of
- [No Presents Please! How to Host a Food Drive Birthday Party](https://foodlets.com/2015/05/05/no-presents-please-hosting-a-food-drive-birthday-party/) - I CAN'T DECIDE WHAT I LIKE MORE about this food drive birthday party. Helping families in need or cutting down the clutter in our own house. (Selfish, true. Now back to the story!) For my kindergartener's birthday party we're asking friends not to bring presents. But to load up on groceries instead! It took a couple of
- [Why I'll Never Buy Another Piñata: 5 Things I've Learned About Throwing Birthday Parties for Small Kids](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/15/pinata-thoughts-about-birthday-parties/) - We've jumped the gun so many times as parents. There was the time we took preschoolers camping. (They were scared, they had to go potty. Unzipping and zipping the tent a million times at night is less restful than you think.) When my husband tried to share a classic movie he enjoyed as a kid, "The Apple
- [12 Pictures of What 5 Servings of Fruit & Veggies a Day Looks Like for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/29/12-ways-kids-can-get-5-servings-of-fruit-veggies-a-day/) - You know how we're supposed to eat 5 servings of fruit & veggies a day? Adults should eat 5 servings, kids should eat 5 servings. Most of us aren't. In 2013, the CDC found that most American adults and teens get somewhere around 1 serving of fruit and up to 1.6 servings of vegetables a day. At best,
- [Is this Square Sandwich Cutter Worth It?](https://foodlets.com/2015/09/09/funbites-shaped-food-cutter-tried-it/) - Kitchen gadgets generally fall into one of two categories: Useful A complete waste of money (not to mention space) We tried the FunBites Square Shaped Food Cutter and... Love it. Category #1 for the win. How Does it Work? Make a regular sandwich--the cutter works best on something sticky like PB&J, instead of salami or
- [3 reasons why you should cook with your kids; Plus our favorite memory-making recipes for fall](https://foodlets.com/2015/09/17/3-reasons-why-you-should-cook-with-your-kids-plus-our-favorite-memory-making-recipes-for-fall/) - Even though it usually takes longer. Even though it's definitely messier. You should cook with your kids. Not every meal. Because time in the universe we live in, the one dictated by a 24-hour clock that just won't budge no matter how hard I try to explain that I need at least two extra hours in the
- [2 Thanksgiving Traditions We're Starting While the Kids are Young](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/30/2-thanksgiving-traditions-were-starting-while-the-kids-are-young/) - We have four small kids and the biggest one is six. This will be the first year that all of them eat solid foods. So, our holiday traditions are evolving our family grows. But even though they're still small, we're starting two traditions this year. In fact, we're doing it because they're still small. Tradition 1:
- [4 Surprising Ways to Feed Your Family Better Instantly: Lessons from Michael Pollan and More](https://foodlets.com/2016/01/04/4-ways-to-feed-your-family-healthier-food-instantly/) - Michael Pollan is right again. Want to feed your family healthier food? Don't worry so much about fads or trendy ingredients he says in his new PBS documentary. Just eat healthy-ish. Ever since I started cooking for my first baby six years ago, which was around the same time that I started paying attention to what I
- [How to Make Dinner Faster and Easier: 8 Tricks I Learned from a Nutritionist and Mom of 2](https://foodlets.com/2016/01/05/make-dinner-faster-and-easier/) - It's just a fact. Family life gets busy and making time for dinner together can be tough. But here's the thing: making dinner at home --and eating together -- is worth it. And thanks to smart tips like these, dinner can be faster and easier than you might think. How can you make dinner at home when
- [The Safest Way to Cut Grapes to Avoid Choking and the Age Experts Suggest You Stop](https://foodlets.com/2016/01/06/the-safest-way-to-cut-grapes-and-avoid-choking-and-the-age-you-can-stop/) - Do you worry about your kids choking on food? I think almost all of us do. And unfortunately it's for good reason. "Researchers estimate that emergency rooms treat more than 10,000 kids a year for food-choking incidents," reports Health Day. And it gets worse. "It is estimated that one child dies every five days due
- [Here's What Happened When I Cut Out Afternoon Snacks...And Why I Did It](https://foodlets.com/2016/01/13/say-it-with-spinach-how-we-cured-picky-eating-at-dinner/) - Are you tired of stressing out about dinner? About trying to make something everyone likes? About going round and round on this little gem: "HOW MANY BITES do I have to take?" Me too. So I changed two major things recently. And everything turned around. Let me start with this though: they sound harsh. These
- [10 game-changing ideas for packing kids' lunches in a Thermos](https://foodlets.com/2016/03/07/10-kids-lunches-you-can-pack-in-a-thermos-some-will-surprise-you/) - We’ve recently discovered something that's changed everything: lunch in a Thermos. Instead of stuffing sandwiches in bento boxes every morning, now I have the chance to fill cute little containers with all sorts of hot – and cold – dishes. Not only does the Thermos approach increase the variety of food they are eating at lunch (added nutrition!)
- [10 Fast Weeknight Dinner Ideas Your Kids Will (Really) Love: This Working Mom of 4 Tested Them All](https://foodlets.com/2016/04/22/fast-weeknight-dinner-ideas-your-kids-will-really-love/) - What do you make for dinner when you're in a hurry after work? For every busy parent, it's hard to beat a few easy weeknight dinner ideas your kids will really, truly, love. And boy do I know it because I just started a giant new consulting job that actually requires me to go to
- [Teaching kids character, one bite at a time](https://foodlets.com/2017/01/05/teaching-kids-character-one-bite-at-a-time/) - And just like that, I'm back. It's been a long year off consulting full time for a giant non-profit organization. Helping them tell their story. Now I'm here again to continue with mine. This year we'll talk about food, and plenty of it. Good-for-you food, kid-friendly food, easy food. But I'm also moving deeper into the
- [Is your child hungry, or just tired? Why I stopped feeding snacks to kids who need rest instead](https://foodlets.com/2017/01/26/is-your-child-hungry-or-just-tired-stop-feeding-snacks-to-kids-who-need-rest/) - What to do when "Mommy, I'm hungry" really means your kid is tired. Once I started paying attention to how much sleep our kids were getting -- and what happened when they didn't get enough -- it really clicked. The connection between being hungry and being tired. And it's one that I want to course
- [Don't overthink "healthy" food, experts say. Just cook more often: 10 simple recipes for busy families](https://foodlets.com/2017/02/02/dont-overthink-healthy-food-for-your-family-just-cook-10-simple-recipes-full-of-fresh-ingredients-kid-tested-x4/) - Do you want to start eating healthier food? Do you want to start feeding your kids healthier food, but aren't sure where to start? Forget organic. Skip the latest expose on the "hidden dangers" of food lurking in the florescent aisles of your own grocery store. Eating healthier food as a family is simpler than
- [My 4-year-old says he's hungry all the time: 6 solutions from nutrition experts who are also moms](https://foodlets.com/2017/03/13/my-4-year-old-says-hes-hungry-all-the-time/) - My four-year-old is hungry all the time, a mom told me the other day. And she wasn't sure what to do about it. This is the way many of my conversations with other parents start. At the playground, in the grocery store, huddled around pizza boxes at birthday parties. Sometimes I just listen, when it's more about
- [How to Win at Halloween with Small Kids](https://foodlets.com/2017/10/31/how-to-win-at-halloween-with-small-kids/) - We'd just moved to the U.S. from Rome. After four years in Italy, where three of our babies were born, my husband and I packed it up and moved to a small town outside of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. From cobblestones to rolling hills. We loved it instantly. Our historic small town came complete with
- [You won't always like dinner, and other life lessons I want my kids to learn](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/01/you-wont-always-like-dinner-and-other-life-lessons-i-want-my-kids-to-learn/) - "So, what are the kids eating?" my friend asked, wandering into our kitchen. All I could do was stare at her blankly. My husband and I were hosting a dinner party for a handful of families, each with small children in tow. We weren't there yet though. Pregnant with my first baby, I was totally
- [8 Ways to Give Back as a Family](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/28/8-ways-to-give-back-as-a-family/) - There's something so magical about the holiday season that brings out the best in people. Our list of ways to give back is certainly not comprehensive but if you're trying to teach kids about generosity this year, these eight ideas will get you started. Pack "Good Samaritan Bags". Fill large zip-top bags and keep them in
- [How Chores Changed My Kids: Plus Age-by-Age Appropriate Chores for Kids Under 10](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/03/how-chores-changed-my-kids-10-chores-for-kids-under-10/) - We have four small kids, ages three, five, six and eight and after lots of trial and error, have finally settled on a chore system that everyone can follow and doesn't ADD more stress to our lives. Chores are good for building character Why chores? Why not let kids be kids? Because it's good for
- [Stop saying "let me know if I can help", and Just Take A tired friend's kids for the day](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/20/stop-saying-let-me-know-if-i-can-help-and-just-take-your-friends-kids-for-the-day/) - That's what I finally did and it was amazing. Not just for my friends either. Do you have a friend who's going through a rough patch? With a new baby? A sick partner? Or just your average overwhelming modern life? I've had two families from church on my mind for a while now and here's
- [12 Things this mom of 4 always, Always buys at Costco](https://foodlets.com/2018/02/06/12-things-this-mom-of-4-always-always-buys-at-costco/) - Besides a supply of paper towels that's roughly the same size as my first car, there are a few key products that make a Costco membership worth it to me. My family includes four kids plus my husband and me and these are the things I always pick up. (And if I skip the middle
- [2 Signs Your Child is Constipated, Plus 10 High-Fiber Foods for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2018/03/06/2-signs-your-child-is-constipated-plus-10-high-fiber-foods-for-kids/) - 1. Has your child suddenly started wetting the bed again, long after potty training? 2. Does your child often complain about a stomach ache? Both of these are signs that your child is constipated. Experts say that many kids are "secretly" constipated because they simply put off going to the bathroom. Their
- [5 Things I Love Most about My Pantry Makeover, 2 Years Later](https://foodlets.com/2018/05/22/5-things-i-love-most-about-my-pantry-makeover-2-years-later/) - My pantry was driving me crazy. I couldn't find anything. And the day five bags of chips fell on my head was the one I said okay. I give up. So I wrestled all those ingredients into bins, boxes and shelves. Now, after living with the setup for about two years, here are the best
- [5 Meals Kids Can Make Themselves](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/10/5-meals-kids-can-make-themselves/) - The only thing better than raising kids who love good food is kids who cook that food themselves! My nine-year-old has tested every one of these recipes and these are her specialties. From breakfast in bed on weekends to snacks and the occasional dinner, here are five starter recipes for tiny cooks: Honey-Mustard Chicken With
- [What to Pack for a Day Trip with Kids: 6 Tips from a Mom of 4](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/14/what-to-pack-day-trip-with-kids/) - It's taken a while but the code has been cracked. After trial and error (and a little more error just for good measure) I've got a solid list of what to pack for a day trip with kids. I love a good day trip. We have four small kids which manifests in my brain like
- [12 Books My Kids Have Loved, Learned from, Been Inspired By (And I Didn't Mind Reading Again & Again!)](https://foodlets.com/2018/11/15/12-books-my-kids-have-loved-learned-from-been-inspired-by-and-i-didnt-mind-reading-over-and-over-again/) - We have four small kids, ages four through nine, so if it's bedtime you can always find us snuggled up on the sofa, books in hand. Of course we're big fans of Piggie & Elephant, Olivia, Star Wars and all the adorable Kevin Henkes books but sometimes a few new books off the beaten path are
- [How to Sneak Vegetables into Food: 6 Delicious Recipes that Happen to Be Full of Veggies](https://foodlets.com/2019/01/08/how-to-sneak-vegetables-into-food-6-delicious-recipes-that-happen-to-be-full-of-veggies/) - Experts say kids should eat about five servings of fruit and vegetables a day. But most don't. Sound familiar? Well, we can help with easy ways to sneak vegetables into food. How to sneak vegetables into food Just a quick word about "sneak". You've got choices here. Either explain to your kids that vegetables make
- [My New Cookbook! "Super Simple Baking for Kids"](https://foodlets.com/2019/02/05/my-new-cookbook-super-simple-baking-for-kids/) - I couldn't be more delighted to share some very big news... My first kids' cookbook is here! Almost. "Super Simple Baking for Kids" comes out on March 19. There are 55+ kid-tested recipes packed in here, every one of them baked by my own rascals last year, from muffins to cakes, scones, pizza and pies. We
- [5 Ways a Kindergarten Teacher's Classroom Changed My Family Dinners](https://foodlets.com/2019/02/28/kindergarten-classroom-changed-family-dinners/) - Have you ever wondered how teachers don't get totally overwhelmed? With dozens of kids in their care, these amazing beings aren't only charged with keeping everyone safe. Nope. Their job is to actually TEACH major life skills. And in my experience with three kids in the public school system (so far), this is done with
- [How to Make Mornings Easier with Kids](https://foodlets.com/2019/04/23/how-to-make-mornings-easier-with-kids/) - Do you wish you could make your mornings easier? Better? Less stressful? Stress is no joke. Starting the day on the wrong foot not only makes you question your parenting choices (and your sanity) but it takes a physical toll on your body--and the kids' too. If you have toddlers, or let's be honest, kids
- [Tired of Kids Complaining About Dinner? Try These Tips from a Mom of 4](https://foodlets.com/2019/03/05/stop-kids-complaining-about-food/) - My kids love complaining about dinner. I've got a six-year-old who typically walks into the kitchen around dinner o'clock with a whine locked and loaded. "But whaaaaat's for dinnerrrrr?" You know. You've made dinner before. And you know who else gets it? My aunt. Family lore goes that she got fed up with my cousins' complaints
- [The Fury of Modern Motherhood](https://foodlets.com/2019/09/27/the-fury-of-modern-motherhood/) - It's okay to lose it with your kids. It's not great. But it's the truth. I want you to know that because for YEARS I thought I was the only one who ran out of patience. Who buckled under the strain of being up with a sick kindergartener at night and still making a hot
- [Introducing my new book: "Cupcake Cookbook for Kids"!](https://foodlets.com/2020/06/15/cupcake-cookbook-for-kids/) - I'm so thrilled to say that my fourth book for kids is here: Cupcake Cookbook for Kids! A deliciously easy cupcake cookbook kids will love Cupcakes are some of the most magical, mouthwatering baked goods―but you don’t need fancy equipment or tons of experience to make these fun, frosted treats from scratch. Can kids really
- [How to Clean Stains from a Dutch Oven](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/01/how-to-clean-stains-from-a-dutch-oven/) - Ever wondered how to clean the stains from a Dutch Oven? My Le Creuset Dutch Oven is one of my favorite (and oldest) pans. It's an investment piece that I want to last forever. But over the years the bottom has gotten stained. There's no food there. Just stains. I tried lots of methods to
- [Holiday Present Ideas for Foodie Kids](https://foodlets.com/2018/12/04/christmas-present-ideas-for-foodie-kids/) - Do you want your kids to love and appreciate good food? These adorable, handy and empowering gifts are a great start! Every single item has the highest ratings and includes free shipping. TOYS FOR FOOD LOVERS Indoor Food Truck Playhouse $34.99 Wooden Ice Cream Play Set $39.99/28 pieces Barbie Spaghetti Chef & Kitchen Set $34.89 Brain Freeze
- [Cookbooks for Kids!](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/29/cookbooks-for-kids/) - Kids who cook are kids who appreciate good food. Baking is the most delicious — and often simplest — place to begin. As a mom of four, I'm thrilled to share my cookbooks for kids. Each one is full of simple, crowd-pleasing recipes with easy cleanup: Kid Chef Junior Bakes Super Simple Baking for Kids
- [15 gift ideas for mini foodies in the making](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/07/12-gift-ideas-for-mini-foodies-in-the-making/) - IT'S HERE, THAT SPECIAL TIME OF YEAR when kids start asking for everything and the only thing that makes it tolerable is your ability to threaten them with Santa's List. Ah, Christmas. Actually ours are still too little to have gimme fever--just wait until next year--but I've still got lots of great ideas to foster
- [10 gift ideas for grown-up cooks](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/12/christmas-gifts-for-cooks/) - IF SOMEONE COOKS FOOD in your house, this list is for you! Based on years of collecting, experimenting, ditching, investing and trying new stuff again, these are my must-have, best-of kitchen essentials. Most aren't cheap but they're excellent tools and literally guaranteed to last a lifetime. That's my kind of investment. All-Clad Stainless Steel Cookware
- [Gift Ideas for Cooks & Foodies at Every age](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/13/gift-ideas-for-cooks-foodies-at-every-age/) - If you've got a budding chef on your list, check out all my favorite ideas for boosting creativity in and out of the kitchen all year round! Everything is available on Amazon Prime, complete with fabulous reviews (some of them from me!) Tiny Cooks & Mini Foodies 3-Piece Plate & Utensil Set (about $19.99)This dishwasher-safe
- [8 Holiday Gifts Teachers Love Most, According to Teachers! (And 3 to Skip)](https://foodlets.com/2017/12/02/8-holiday-gifts-teachers-love-most-according-to-teachers-and-3-to-skip/) - Looking for a holiday gift for teachers? When I saw a recent article brazenly titled "12 Holiday Gifts Teachers Do NOT Want" my curiosity was piqued. So was my insecurity. I have four small kids and all of them adore their teachers. Each year they LOVE offering a holiday gift to the adults who guide
- [The Perfect Gift for Tiny Cooks Has Just Arrived: Kid Chef Junior Bakes!](https://foodlets.com/2019/09/03/the-perfect-gift-for-tiny-cooks-has-just-arrived-kid-chef-junior-bakes/) - I am just tickled to share some exciting news with you...my second kids' cookbook is almost here. Kid Chef Junior Bakes is full of the simple, can't-mess-it-up recipes you find on Foodlets except it's got step-by-step photos for tiny bakers, ages four and up! We've packed this kids' cookbook with jokes, fun facts and places
- [Age-by-Age Gift Guide for Kids Who Love to Cook](https://foodlets.com/2019/11/21/age-by-age-gift-guide-for-kids-who-love-to-cook/) - Got a mini foodie on your list? From toddlers to college students, here are the top-rated, most eco-friendly, safest, cutest, most encouraging gifts you can find online. Everything is easy to clean and designed to boost any child's love of good food--especially when they make it themselves. Toddlers & Preschoolers Adorable Aprons $10 An apron
- [Hide & Sneak: 6 clever ways to use carrots](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/03/hide-sneak-6-clever-ways-to-use-carrots/) - THIS IS A NEW FEATURE -- Hide & Sneak -- designed with picky eaters (aka most babies and toddlers) in mind. We're starting with carrots, a nutritional powerhouse so full of beta carotene, antioxidants and fiber that a habit of munching on them can help lower cholesterol, prevent heart disease, diabetes and even stroke. And
- [Stop making two dinners: Versatile ideas for the whole family](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/25/stop-making-two-dinners-versatile-ideas-for-the-whole-family/) - The other night I made herbed turkey burgers for dinner. Since our two-year-old has always been a die-hard condiments fan, I put neat little dots of ketchup and mustard on her bun, silently congratulating myself on knowing her so well. That's when the screaming started. "I want it clean! Clean, like Stellie's!" She was referring
- [Why French Kids Eat Everything](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/23/why-french-kids-eat-everything/) - Here comes another one... but it's not what you think. French Kids Eat Everything is a surprisingly charming memoir about a family who moved to France with two picky eaters in tow and returned to Canada a year later with a happier, healthier, more educated outlook on food. Make no mistake: This isn't a U.S.-bashing
- [10 Reasons Why French Kids Eat Everything...Anywhere! Questions for Karen Le Billon of](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/03/10-questions-for-karen-le-billon/) - I'M TOTALLY OBSESSED WITH INSPIRED BY the lovely stories and excellent advice in this book, French Kids Eat Everything. We've tried a few recipes, and had success (thank you Karen!). In the meantime, more advice from the smartest family cook on two continents... What’s been the hardest part of sticking to the French way of eating now
- [How to get kids to try new foods (without begging, bribing or losing your mind)](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/04/how-to-get-kids-to-try-new-foods-without-begging-bribing-or-losing-your-mind/) - Every meal with 18-month-old Estelle starts the same way. I lift the fork to her lips, just as she clamps them shut. "No." There's twisting, frowning and eyebrows furrowing and it would be maddening if this lasted for more than five seconds, but we're on to her. At this stage, and there will be many
- [Why are some kids such picky eaters? Simple solutions worth trying](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/11/why-are-some-kids-such-picky-eaters-solutions-to-try-now/) - A FRIEND OF MINE relayed a familiar scene with her four-year-old on Facebook. Lucy: "I don't like these meatballs." Me, noticing that they are still in big pieces: "Hmm, do you want me to cut them up a little more?" Lucy: "That won't make them yummy." So goes the battle that in our house, we
- [10 foods to avoid and 6 to make a healthy habit](https://foodlets.com/2011/07/21/10-foods-to-avoid-and-6-to-make-a-healthy-habit/) - COUNTING CALORIES IS OUT. So says The New York Times in a story about the new study from Harvard University. More than 120,000 people were followed for 12-20 years, the most comprehensive study to date, revealing a few key factors in weight-loss. Or rather, how to not gain weight over the years. It seems that
- [Low-Sugar Cranberry Oat Muffins with Fresh Cranberries](https://foodlets.com/2013/11/27/cranberry-oat-muffins-with-fresh-cranberries/) - These cranberry muffins with fresh cranberries are moist and delicious, but also good for you! Ours are lower in sugar than most cranberry muffin recipes, plus full of whole oats for added fiber and of course, all those fresh cranberries. Best of all, kids love these muffins. Just ask my trusty helpers. tips for making
- [Baked Goat Cheese Dip Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2021/01/20/baked-goat-cheese-dip-kids-love/) - Sometimes a hearty lunch comes in the form of a baguette. And nothing is more satisfying than this goat cheese dip that even kids love. Speaking of getting kids excited, scroll down for fun facts, jokes and a video about how goat cheese is made. Why kids like this goat cheese dip I wanted our
- [Coconut Curry Soup with Chicken & Noodles](https://foodlets.com/2020/12/18/chicken-noodle-coconut-curry-soup/) - This coconut curry soup is like traditional chicken noodle soup that just got a creamy infusion of spices and flavor. It's so good. For kids who aren't sure about trying new flavors like curry, chicken noodle coconut curry soup is a perfect place to start: mild, familiar and sweet. Scroll down for more ideas on
- [Easy Blueberry Scones with Buttermilk](https://foodlets.com/2019/06/06/easy-blueberry-scones-buttermilk/) - Light and flaky blueberry scones with buttermilk and all the rich flavor of a complicated recipe in only a few minutes? That's the magic of our easy blueberry scones with buttermilk, which is included in my book "Kid Chef Junior Bakes". What's special about our easy blueberry scones with buttermilk They cook quickly in a
- [Simple White Bean Hummus with Lemon Juice](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/13/simple-white-bean-hummus-with-lemon-juice/) - YOU KNOW HOW YOU'RE ALWAYS TRYING/BEGGING/PLEADING to get the kids eating more veggies? This easy white bean hummus is one new way to do it, no bribes needed. Get Kids Excited For most kids, homemade white bean hummus will be is a new food and ours were no different, so I used a couple of
- [Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins (With Beans!) 2 Ways](https://foodlets.com/2012/10/12/chocolate-pumpkin-muffins-with-beans/) - Don't stop reading yet. I made chocolate pumpkin muffins with beans. A full can of beans. And they're awesome. This breakfast was originally a dessert, similar to our chocolate cake with beans, but if there's an option to wake up to chocolate I have only one thing to say: yes, please! Our muffins are packed
- [Easy Sour Chicken Kids Love: A Takeout Recipe Makeover!](https://foodlets.com/2017/12/04/easy-sweet-and-sour-chicken-recipe/) - My kids love sweet and sour chicken--and this recipe is easy. You get easy sweet and sour chicken that's also healthier than takeout! Every time we order Chinese, sweet and sour chicken is our kids' go-to request. But all that deep fried chicken and food coloring isn't my favorite thing to serve for dinner, so
- [Win a Copy: "The Grain-Free Family Table: 125 Recipes for Fresh, Healthy Eating Every Day" by Carrie Vitt and learn how to set up a dinning room](https://foodlets.com/2014/11/25/win-1-of-3-copies-the-grain-free-family-table-by-carrie-vitt/) - Sometimes I ask you guys what, if anything, I can give more of here at Foodlets. What would be useful? Lots of you have recently mentioned grain-free recipes and while several of our dishes here are certainly grain or gluten-free (vegetables, for example) it's not an area of focus for me. That's why I'm so
- [Jamie Oliver's Cheese Cauliflower Pasta: A Recipe Makeover](https://foodlets.com/2021/01/13/jamie-olivers-cheese-cauliflower-pasta-makeover/) - We did a quick recipe makeover on Jamie Oliver's Cheese Cauliflower Pasta and the results are delicious. Nutrition: I used whole-wheat bread instead of sourdough. It was the ends of a loaf I already hand in the pantry. I love using all the food we have instead of buying something else. Also in this case,
- [Easy Succotash Recipe with Frozen Corn](https://foodlets.com/2019/06/05/shortcut-summer-succotash-frozen-corn/) - This easy succotash recipe is the summer side dish my 10-year-old does a little dance for. A dance of joy. For veggies. Our shortcut summer succotash with frozen corn is that good! Buttery and tart, thanks to a splash of apple cider vinegar, this easy succotash recipe is the only way my kids ENJOY fresh
- [Fast Sweet Potato Chili](https://foodlets.com/2020/12/07/sweet-potato-chili/) - This kid-friendly vegetarian recipe for sweet potato chili comes together in about 30 minutes. Full of good-for-you ingredients you probably have in your pantry, all four of my kids loved this sweet potato chili with a dollop of sour cream plus a little cheese on top. Our version isn't spicy so if you want more
- [How to Make Perfect Brown Rice (You'll Be Surprised, I Promise!)](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/16/how-to-make-perfect-brown-rice-fluffy-soft-never-mushy/) - How do you make perfect brown rice? I certainly couldn't have told you a few weeks ago. Because I've always been TERRIBLE at making rice. It seems simple right? Well, not for me! My rice is usually lumpy or burned or mushy or crunchy. And sometimes, if the Gods are trying to really do a
- [Easy Banana Bread](https://foodlets.com/2021/01/11/easy-banana-bread/) - This easy banana bread recipe is a simplified version of classic banana bread. We have an excellent recipe for honey-sweetened banana muffins with coconut oil and a zucchini-banana bread blend my whole family loves. But this delicious loaf gives those a run for their money. To make banana bread easier There's a secret ingredient that
- [Mark Bittman's Butternut Squash Soup with Apples and Bacon](https://foodlets.com/2014/11/06/mark-bittmans-butternut-squash-soup-with-apples-and-bacon/) - This recipe is excerpted with permission from "How to Cook Everything Fast" by Mark Bittman. This soup has it all: It’s sweet, colorful, and creamy and even features the smoky crunch of bacon on top. The most time-consuming thing about preparing squash is peeling and seeding it. INGREDIENTS 8 slices bacon 1 medium butternut squash
- [What about The Greater Good?](https://foodlets.com/2018/10/07/what-about-the-greater-good/) - Can you teach kids about the greater good around the table? I think about all the issue we're facing during this election season: climate change, gun control, social security cuts, immigration and even basic fairness. We hear a lot about The Founding Fathers' vision for our country. Especially when it comes to the second amendment.
- [a pink tea party birthday theme, perfect for a 4th birthday party](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/31/a-pink-tea-party-birthday-theme-perfect-for-a-4th-birthday-party/) - WHEN EMILEE ASKED FOR A PINK TEA PARTY, her mom, Amanda, put together an event straight out of Steel Magnolias (minus any of the sad parts). Pink and pink! From handmade paper flowers to homemade strawberry preserves and scones to his and hers dress up stations, this was a tea party every pirate and princess
- [5 simple habits that set kids up for a healthy life](https://foodlets.com/2017/01/06/5-simple-habits-that-set-kids-up-for-a-healthy-life/) - Out of all the places to start our Feeding Kids Character series, teaching them to take care of their bodies--the ones that they'll need every day from here on out--seems like the best place to begin. Now here come the disclaimers... Depending on what you read (and whether you're pitched essential oils, leggings or makeup from
- [Let's Make Mark Bittman's Pasta with Chicken, Mushrooms, and Wine](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/03/lets-make-mark-bittmans-pasta-with-chicken-mushrooms-and-wine/) - Pasta with Chicken, Mushrooms, and Wine Excerpted with permission from HOW TO COOK EVERYTHING FAST Time: Faster (30 minutes or less) Makes: 4 to 6 servings Use red wine and this dish is hearty for the fall or winter; use white and it becomes lighter for spring or summer. You won’t go wrong either way.
- [Spinach, Cobbler, Rice Pudding and More: Our Most Popular Recipes of the Year](https://foodlets.com/2020/12/26/recipes-kids-love/) - These are this year's top recipes kids love! Not surprisingly, our most popular recipes were quick, full of shortcuts and so kid-friendly that feeding a family well felt a little more doable. Even in 2020. Here's what you liked best: 1. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic Starts with a bag of frozen spinach! 2. Easy Blueberry
- [Stocking Stuffers to Get Kids Excited About Food](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/20/stocking-stuffers-to-get-kids-excited-about-food/) - From tiny treats and toys to special splurges, these are my favorite ideas for getting kids excited about food, all year round. Soups & Spells This Harry Potter soup bowl (about the size of a regular mug) is so fun to serve all our kids' favorites: broccoli, baked potato and creamy tomato soup. Yum! S'mores
- [Foodlets appears on the Mommy Bites show via Blog Talk Radio](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/29/foodlets-appears-on-the-mommy-bites-show-via-blog-talk-radio/) - WHAT FUN! This week I was invited to be part of a talk radio discussion about international parenting differences on the Mommy Bites show. It was an hour full of interesting insights from another mom in Bahrain and an anthropologist who is an author of nine books about parenting and children around the world. There
- [Real Food Starter Recipes Tested By Real Kids: 5 Simple (& Healthy) Dishes Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/13/5-simple-real-food-recipes-kids-love/) - Trying to move toward more home cooked meals and less processed food? Worried about time? What about going to the trouble of cooking only to have the kids give your meal a big thumbs down? Well if you are looking for classic and modern party recipes, Richardsons Smoke House provides the inspiration for the same
- [Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce](https://foodlets.com/2020/12/02/hot-fudge-sauce/) - My mother-in-law introduced us to homemade hot fudge sauce and we'll never go back! Impossibly thick, rich and decadent, this hot fudge sauce is also a great gift idea. What You Need to Make Hot Fudge Sauce You don't need any special equipment. Just a pan, a whisk and some jars for storage. My MIL
- [How to Make Pancake Syrup with Frozen Berries](https://foodlets.com/2019/04/09/how-to-make-pancake-syrup-with-frozen-berries/) - There's only one way to beat homemade pancakes, French toast or my kids' favorite, a Dutch Baby...by whipping up a batch of syrup using frozen berries. It works for blueberry syrup. Strawberry syrup. Or triple berry syrup like we did. Use ANY frozen berries you like. The results are delicious every time. Plus, just a
- [Pancake Mix Recipe](https://foodlets.com/2020/12/10/pancake-mix-recipe/) - Every Saturday our kids make pancakes and this is the homemade pancake mix recipe they use. It's foolproof. Even for kids! Sometimes we add apples. Sometimes fresh fruit. But they ALWAYS make a double batch so the whole crew can enjoy already-made pancakes later in the week. What You Need to Make this Pancake Mix
- [How to Make a Gingerbread Tree](https://foodlets.com/2020/12/04/gingerbread-tree/) - Tired of your gingerbread houses falling apart? Enter, the Gingerbread Tree. Easier to make than a house, but still just as fun, we'll show you how to bake and construct a Gingerbread Tree. Busy parents of littles can't be trying to construct a house that only wants to crash, no matter how many gumdrops
- [You're Only 4 Ingredients Away from Chocolate Peppermint Truffles](https://foodlets.com/2017/12/13/youre-only-4-ingredients-away-from-chocolate-peppermint-truffles/) - If you're looking for an easy recipe for chocolate truffles with a crunchy peppermint coating, these are the truffles for you! My six-year-old whipped up a batch for a holiday teachers' gift this week. Almost entirely by herself. Yep, these chocolate truffles are that simple. And what are truffles doing on a site like
- [Star Wars Christmas Cookies](https://foodlets.com/2017/12/18/star-wars-christmas-cookies/) - "Those. Are. AWESOME!" That's the review from the rascals when they saw the finished Star Wars Christmas Cookies. Our Star Wars Christmas Cookies are a combination of two ideas: Our Homemade Star Wars Graham Crackers and the Christmas-camoflauge pattern from So Yummy (see it here on our Facebook page.). Kids can help but these Star Wars
- [Easy Melting Snowmen & Sparkly Santas: Simple Christmas Cookies Kids Can Make](https://foodlets.com/2015/11/22/easy-melting-snowmen-sparkly-santas-christmas-cookies-kids-can-make/) - Today's post is part of a series we're doing on Easy Christmas Cookies Kids Can Make. The first two are Easy Melting Snowmen & Sparkly Santas. You'll need 2 cookie cutters: a star and a circle. (Which are part of a basic cookie cutter set like this one.) If you want to give these cookies
- [Double Chocolate Reindeer Cookies](https://foodlets.com/2020/12/01/double-chocolate-reindeer-cookies/) - We've made reindeer cookies with snickerdoodles but these double chocolate cookies are my family's favorite. The recipe is simple and easily doubled. Easy Christmas cookies for kids don't get any sweeter! What You Need to Make Reindeer Cookies Mini pretzels Candy eyes Red M&Ms (the holiday bags with only red and green are perfect but
- [Recipe Makeover: Jamie Oliver's 30-minute scalloped potatoes with onions](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/04/fast-easy-scalloped-potatoes-from-jamie-oliver/) - My version of Jamie Oliver's scalloped potatoes with onions is one of our family's favorite side dishes. One we almost didn't know about it. I made a discovery. Jamie Oliver's 30 Minute Meals has been on one of our 900 Italian cable channels for quite some time but always dubbed, in Italian. I'd sort of given
- [The Healthiest Way to Say Happy Thanksgiving: A Turkey Vegetable Platter!](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/09/the-healthiest-way-to-say-happy-thanksgiving-a-turkey-vegetable-platter/) - With all the rich and sweet food served on Thanksgiving, I love setting a huge platter of vegetables out early in the day for kids (and you know, adult guests) to snack on. We've been shaping the whole thing like a Turkey every year, and every year, the kids squeal. That's a pretty easy win.
- [Chocolate Turkey Pretzel Sticks](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/09/chocolate-turkey-pretzel-sticks/) - What do your kids do on Thanksgiving day? I like to put mine to work with food crafts that keep them in the kitchen, but not quite under foot. I've been looking on Pinterest for inspiration and of all the Thanksgiving projects we've tried, these chocolate turkey pretzel sticks are the best combination of easy
- [easy-to-make owl crackers](https://foodlets.com/2014/11/09/easy-to-make-owl-crackers/) - MAKING DINNER WITH ANTSY KIDS UNDER FOOT is hard enough. But making Thanksgiving dinner with kids playing chase through the kitchen? That's the kind of stress me and my pre-ordered, free-range, organic turkey just don't need. What we need is wine a simple kid's activity. If you're looking for a keep 'em busy project that also doubles
- [3-Step Chocolate-Peanut Butter Pilgrim Hats for Thanksgiving](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/09/3-step-chocolate-peanut-butter-pilgrim-hats-for-thanksgiving/) - If there's an easier Thanksgiving food craft to make, you'll have to convince me because these 3-Step Chocolate-Peanut Butter Pilgrim Hats are the simplest treat we've ever done. Seriously. I made one, then went to check on our chickens outside (they're new to the coop after spending a month in the garage.) When I came
- [How to make chocolate acorns](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/09/how-to-make-chocolate-acorns/) - If you've got bigger kids, this is the sweetest Thanksgiving treat you can make together. Bonus, a collection of these would be gorgeous on top of a frosted cake. What you need to make chocolate acorns Hershey's Kisses Mini Vanilla Wafer cookies (or mini Nutter Butters) Mini Chocolate chips Chocolate chips, melted How to make
- [Low-Sugar Cranberry Sauce Your Kids Will Gobble Up](https://foodlets.com/2014/11/22/low-sugar-cranberry-sauce-your-kids-will-gobble-up/) - "Can we make those cranberries again?" my five-year-old asked the other day. Noting this was a request for fruit (right?) rather than say, bunnie-shaped crackers, I dove right in. "Oh, the muffins?" I guessed remembering how many batches of these low-sugar cranberry oat muffins we made last year, totally congratulating myself on baking something so tasty
- [Easy Dinner Rolls: Soft and Buttery, Ready in 30 Minutes](https://foodlets.com/2020/10/22/easy-dinner-rolls/) - These easy dinner rolls are like pillows. I make them as often as possible with this simple recipe from my book, Super Simple Baking for Kids. how to make easy dinner rolls These easy dinner rolls are best eaten on the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to three
- [Easy Cranberry Scones with Whole Oats](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/02/easy-cranberry-scones-whole-oats/) - I'll be making these easy cranberry scones with whole oats on repeat this season. 4 updates that make these easy cranberry scones easier (and healthier!) They're full of whole oats. Fiber rich, good-for-you whole oats to keep growing bodies full for longer. I use my Kitchenaide standing mixer to incorporate the butter. For me, it's
- [Baked Apple Fritters](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/25/baked-apple-fritters/) - I have made four batches of these baked apple fritters in the last two weeks. There are currently no apple fritters in my house. That's the math on how good they are! What's Great About Baked Apple Fritters When you're a busy parent who's short on time but trying to feed your kids well, things
- [local foodlets workshop coming up: 10 tips for raising healthy eaters at home. join us!](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/21/local-workshop-coming-up-10-tips-for-raising-healthy-eaters-at-home/) - THIS ONE IS FOR THE NORTH CAROLINA LOCALS but I wish (and hope) to reach more of you in the future. I'm thrilled to say that we're having a parents' discussion and workshop here in Hillsborough, NC on April 10, 2014. Please generic valtrex cost come, please bring a pal and by all means, please
- [Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs 2 Ways](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/22/slow-cooker-bbq-ribs-2-ways/) - Let me warn you about these slow cooker BBQ ribs. The delicious smell is so overwhelming that you may be tempted to snack yourself to death before all that juicy, soft meat is ready for dinner. That's the thing about slow cookers. They make me so hungry! But if you can handle all the awesome
- [One-Pot Instant Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce](https://foodlets.com/2019/02/12/instant-pot-spaghetti-meat-sauce/) - This is the one-pot spaghetti that my kids can't stop asking for -- and it's made in the Instant Pot! I've made this Instant Pot Spaghetti four times in the last month. Four. Everyone loved it every single time. What I love about one-pot Instant Pot Spaghetti It's easy. If you're new to Instant Pot
- [Popsicles for Breakfast! How to Make Yogurt Parfait Popsicles](https://foodlets.com/2015/08/09/yogurt-parfait-popsicles-a-healthy-snack-to-go/) - Did you know that popsicles were invented in the 1920's? But to this day, it's one of most versatile snacks that any kid would love to have. By now you know I'll whip up homemade popsicles out of anything--and the kids will eat it with the biggest, drippiest smiles you've ever seen.Spinach? Yep. Lemonade? Of
- [Phoebe's Fantastic Microwave Fudge (That Cooks in 5 Minutes Flat!)](https://foodlets.com/2017/12/13/phoebes-fantastic-microwave-fudge-that-cooks-in-5-minutes-flat/) - This was such easy fudge recipe to make that my eight-year-old tackled the whole thing herself. That's because it's not just five-minute fudge. It's microwave fudge! To make this simple fudge, all you do is assemble the ingredients in a glass bowl -- and without even stirring -- pop the whole thing in the microwave
- [Greek Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/10/greek-chicken-sheet-pan-dinner/) - All the mediterranean flavors of Greece -- olives, tomatoes, feta cheese, onions -- in one sheet pan dinner your whole family will love as much as mine did. As you know, the rules for adding a recipe to foodlets.com is that three out of four kids must love the dinner. They gotta give it a
- [Easy Chicken Coconut Curry: Ready in 30 Minutes!](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/06/easy-chicken-coconut-curry-30-minutes/) - This easy chicken coconut curry comes together in only half an hour. But that's not the best thing. Here's the crown and glory: All four of my kids loved it. *And the crowd goes wild...* What I Like About This Easy Chicken Coconut Curry It's not too spicy, making this a great Intro to Curry
- [30-Minute Lemon Chicken with Tomatoes & Kale](https://foodlets.com/2020/11/05/30-minute-chicken-lemon-tomatoes-kale/) - This 30-minute chicken dinner is packed with flavor -- and healthy ingredients! Use kale, spinach, baby spinach or mustard greens. Anything works. Serve it over a bed of spaghetti and you'll have a dinner everyone asks to make on repeat. Yes, cook the herbs first. I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they're full of
- [Potato Galette Recipe with Feta, Corn & Dill](https://foodlets.com/2020/10/29/potato-galette-recipe-with-feta-corn-dill/) - For a luxurious lunch or a hearty vegetarian dinner along side a salad, my kids LOVE this potato galette recipe. With whole-wheat flour, chick peas for protein and tons of potassium-rich potatoes, it's a healthy meal. Add all that butter, sweet corn and creamy feta and you've got a treat. Here's how I make our
- [Slow Cooker Potato Soup with Cheddar Cheese & Bacon](https://foodlets.com/2014/10/02/slow-cooker-potato-soup-fully-loaded/) - IT'S SOUP SEASON! With brisk evenings coming closer, days getting shorter and still not a full night's sleep in sight, this new mom thought it was time to give my ol' slow cooker another try. Inspired by 100 Days of Real Cooking, we made our own version of a thick and rich soup that our kids actually loved.
- [2 lessons Japanese kids are learning at lunch](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/18/2-lessons-japanese-kids-are-learning-at-lunch/) - First it was the French, and now there are foodie rumblings from the Far East. Japanese school kids are eating a better lunch than Americans, so says a recent article in The Washington Post. That's because kids in Japan are eating something American kids aren't: fresh, local food. Before the collective eye roll begins, a few more
- [Fool-Proof Christmas Cookies for Beginner Bakers](https://foodlets.com/2018/12/01/5-easy-christmas-cookies-for-kids-to-make/) - With a holiday break coming in 8 short hours (not that our kids are counting down or anything), we've got Christmas cookies on our minds! Here are my favorite Christmas cookies to make with kids because they're easy to make--with adorable results every time! If you don't have time to make them yourselves, then consider
- [How to Make Easy Beef Stew: A Simple Recipe that Cuts Cooking Time in Half](https://foodlets.com/2020/10/23/how-to-make-easy-beef-stew-fast/) - Today we're talking about how to make easy beef stew faster than you ever thought possible. Do you know that traditional beef stew is a two and a half hour ordeal? Not here! We pack our easy beef stew with tons of veggies -- cabbage, peas, carrots, even mushrooms -- and do it
- [Easy Pot Roast with Vegetables](https://foodlets.com/2020/01/03/easy-pot-roast-with-vegetables/) - This easy pot roast with vegetables comes together so quickly! I threw a giant pan brimming with fresh veggies smothering a roast underneath, then seat out with the brood for an afternoon walk. Don't get woozy on me with images of a "perfect family" because this is the FIRST time the guy who shaves ever
- [Healthy Halloween Treats for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2020/10/19/healthy-halloween-treats-for-kids/) - Looking for healthy Halloween treats for kids? From whole-wheat croutons to deviled eggs topped with olive spiders, here are our simplest, spookiest ways to celebrate! Jack-0-Lantern Fruit Cups Nothing but fruit (and smiles) here! Pumpkin Pie Breakfast Cookies with Whole Oats All the best flavors of fall packed into one little healthy treat for breakfast.
- [oven baked barbecue chicken drumsticks](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/29/oven-baked-barbecue-chicken-drumsticks/) - MY KIDS MAY LIVE IN THE SOUTH NOW, but they still aren't huge fans of chicken. Not fried chicken, not BBQ chicken, not chicken in general. Chicken just isn't nearly as big of a thing in Rome, where they were all born. Fast forward to our move to the States and these Euro-rascals, the ones
- [how to make homemade baby food: my favorite 2 methods](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/26/how-to-make-homemade-baby-food-my-favorite-2-methods/) - IT'S SO EASY. Making baby food is not complicated but it is a little time consuming. Meaning, it takes longer than throwing a fistful of pouches into your grocery cart. And when it comes to buying baby food, there are certainly great options available these days. Organic and full of interesting combinations--carrots, apples and parsnips
- [12 Easy Spinach Recipes Kids Like (Adults, Too!)](https://foodlets.com/2017/09/09/spinach-recipes-kids-and-adults-love/) - Spinach recipes kids like! Sounds like an oxymoron, right? Trust me, as a mom of four kids, it's felt that way sometimes. But now we've tried, tested and eaten our way through SO MANY spinach recipes that I'm sharing my keepers with you here. Here are a few of our very favorite, tried-and-true, even-the-kids-like-them spinach
- [Sheet Pan Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Vegetables: A 25-Minute Meal Full of Flavor](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/30/sheet-pan-pork-tenderloin-with-roasted-vegetables-a-25-minute-meal-full-of-flavor/) - Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Smithfield® Marinated Fresh Pork. The opinions and text are all mine. You know those videos that kept popping up on Facebook a while ago? The ones with hearty European kids racing through the woods during a whole day spent outside with axes? Everyone has ruddy cheeks and
- [Taco Pop-Tarts](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/21/protein-snacks-to-go-taco-pop-tarts/) - That's right. These are a mash-up of tacos and Pop-Tarts. You can make them out of store-bought pie crust or make your own crust. They can be vegetarian or meaty. Or in our case, both. The whole thing can be served for lunch or dinner but if you're looking for a hearty snack full of
- [sweet & salty “lollipop” cheese balls](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/13/sweet-salty-cheese-balls-with-cranberries-pretzel-sticks/) - "THEY LOOK LIKE LOLLIPOPS!" That's what 2-year-old Estelle said when we made these, and you'd think that would be enough encouragement for the preschoolers at Phoebe's school to dig in. It wasn't. Despite our best efforts (though they weren't actually very hard), these snacks crashed and BURNED when we brought them for the class to
- [Magical Mac & Cheese With Hidden Veggies in a Creamy Cheese Sauce](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/29/magical-mac-cheese-with-hidden-veggies-in-a-creamy-cheese-sauce/) - This is the best mac and cheese I've ever made. Kids love it. Parents feel good about serving it. And for those two reasons, I call it magical. With just a handful of ingredients, it's possible to whip up a comfort food favorite like mac and cheese that just happens to be full of vegetables.
- [20-Minute Smokey Pasta with Turkey Sausage, Zucchini & Cheese Sauce](https://foodlets.com/2018/02/22/20-minute-smokey-pasta-with-turkey-sausage-zucchini-cheese-sauce/) - "I can't believe you just made up this recipe," she squealed. "It's so good!" That was my third grader last time I made this smokey pasta with turkey sausage and zucchini. No big deal. Your kids say that all the time, right? Ha! Me neither. That's why I decided this one was a keeper. With
- [fruit flavored water: how to get the kids off juice](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/28/fruit-flavored-water-how-to-get-the-kids-off-juice/) - IF YOUR KIDS ARE HOOKED ON THE SWEET STUFF, this may be a good substitute. It's simple, tasty and best of all, a smart solution for weaning even the biggest juice fans off it for good. What's wrong with juice? It's just so full of sugar, basically the equivalent of soda, which is obviously not great
- [No Cook Pizza Sauce, a Recipe Kids Can Make](https://foodlets.com/2020/03/14/no-cook-pizza-sauce-recipe-kids-can-make/) - No cook pizza sauce is so simple to make, even kids can do it. From my cookbook for kids, "Pizza School", this sauce comes together in just a couple of minutes! Fresh, nutritious without any added sugar or preservatives, the best thing about making your own sauce is you get to put as much (or
- [Beginner Ethnic Food: 6 Kid-Friendly Dinners](https://foodlets.com/2015/08/25/beginner-ethnic-food-5-kid-friendly-dinners/) - It was almost too late for me. I became a person who appreciates ethnic food pretty late in life. That's because I grew up in the seventies, but finally I came to realize how good Qualty osetra caviar from Iran is. Then the eighties. When there wasn't any goat cheese anywhere. No Pad Thai. And
- [Fun Dinner Ideas for Families](https://foodlets.com/2019/04/10/fun-dinner-ideas-for-families/) - Adorable ideas to get everyone excited about eating dinner! These fun dinner ideas for families are 100 percent tried and true favorites for my crew of six. And best of all, most of them are simple enough to pull off any night of the week to serve with some lovely Patterned Dinnerware. Fun dinner ideas
- [star shaped cheese, tomatoes and crackers](https://foodlets.com/2014/06/25/star-shaped-cheese-tomatoes-and-crackers/) - FOR KIDS WHO WERE BORN IN ITALY, these three are pretty jazzed about celebrating the 4th of July. Actually, they're mostly excited about these little star shaped cheeses (thanks, veggie cutters!). Fireworks and parades? Our kids have no idea those are part of the package, yet. But boy I sure do.I still get a little
- [Top 10 ways to win the battle of the buffet](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/04/top-10-ways-to-win-the-battle-of-the-buffet/) - IF YOUR TODDLER IS ANYTHING like mine, mealtimes have moved from a neat little bowl of pureed something to a spectacle of bite-sized offerings...each one more hopeful than the next. Some are hits, many are misses. But the least likely to be thrown on the floor most popular items in our house are: 1 >>
- [How to Cook Baked Potatoes on the Grill](https://foodlets.com/2018/07/12/how-to-cook-baked-potatoes-on-the-grill/) - I finally did it. I bought a grill and I already learn How to Grill the Perfect Steak, now is the turn of the potatoes, just make sure you take advantage of propane sales so you have enough to get the grill started, you can even ask to get a propane delivery. Does is surprise
- [Potlucks May Be the Death of Me](https://foodlets.com/2019/11/15/potlucks-may-be-the-death-of-me/) - "What's the matter with potlucks?" My friend laughed. Um, where do I start? How about the part where there is never anything to eat? Nothing. Instead of enjoying a nice, warm dinner on a plate, you get to embark on an epic journey. Like a hobbit. If Frodo had four kids. And one of his
- [a garden birthday party with low sugar "dirt cups": happy 2nd birthday phoebe!](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/27/birthday-party-food-for-toddlers/) - THE DIRT CUPS WERE a process. For Phoebe's second birthday I set out to create a garden party in Villa Ada, Rome's largest park. And the star of the show, other than the birthday girl's pretty fabulous tutu, was the "dirt cups", aka, brownies and pudding mixed together in tiny terra cotta pots with worms,
- [better-for-you morning glory muffins](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/26/better-for-you-morning-glory-muffins/) - I LIVE IN A ONE COFFEE SHOP TOWN NOW, as opposed to Rome where you could buy a cappuccino on practically every corner. Our place is outside of Chapel Hill, North Carolina and what our town lacks in coffee, for making coffee 10 Best Drip Coffee Makers For Your Money, it makes up for in
- [The Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches My 8-Year-Old Can't Get Enough Of](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/13/the-instant-pot-italian-beef-sandwiches-my-8yo-cant-get-enough-of/) - "Are there any more?" That's the only question my third grader has when I make these Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches for dinner. Lucky for her, this recipe makes enough to feed our family of 6 at LEAST twice. If you're cooking for a crowd without spending a fortune--or want to freeze leftovers for an instant dinner
- [Chinese BBQ pork with noodles, carrots and broccoli](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/09/chinese-bbq-pork-noodles-with-carrots-and-broccoli/) - WELL, I REALLY MESSED THIS ONE UP. Let's just say feeding the toddler two pieces of peanut butter toast 90 minutes before dinner wasn't a recipe for success. Even when said dinner involved pasta and barbecue sauce, two things she holds dear. It's a shame though because this was so good! We'll try again another
- [Super Moist Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Frosting](https://foodlets.com/2020/07/01/moist-chocolate-cupcakes-with-peanut-butter-frosting/) - These incredibly moist chocolate cupcakes are my daughter Estelle's favorite recipe from my newest book, "Cupcake Cookbook for Kids". We made them for her ninth birthday, then again, and again. The tender cupcakes are so perfect when topped with this subtle and not-too-sweet peanut butter frosting but you can add any type of frosting you
- [Tips for taking kids to the best restaurants London](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/10/tips-for-taking-kids-to-restaurants/) - WE LIVE IN OSTRIA, so it goes without saying that we love eating out. (Who doesn't enjoy a plate full of pasta?) And while restaurants in Italy aren't marketed as "family-friendly"--there's usually one broken high chair and never, ever a changing table--the vibe is always friendly and welcoming. And who doesn't love some fine italian
- [zucchini chocolate chip breakfast cookies](https://foodlets.com/2013/08/08/chocolate-chip-zucchini-cookies/) - YEP, ZUCCHINI. Barbara Kingsolver wrote in her amazing book, "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle", about the windfall of zucchini she had after planting her first garden. They had piles of the stuff everywhere, on every surface of the kitchen. That's when her daughter decided to get drastic. Bake them into cookies, she said. And that's just what
- [The tiny way we improved the already moist (and healthy!) cornbread our kids love](https://foodlets.com/2015/05/08/bacon-topped-cornbread-sweetened-with-honey/) - Is bacon. These bacon-topped cornbread squares are a riff on our already beloved makeover of Ina Garten's cornbread. As with all of our Barefoot for Babies recipe makeovers, our version is healthier, sweetened with honey and packed with either wheat germ or ground flaxseed. But there's also lots of plain yogurt and milk in there, resulting
- [I love cooking so much I've made it my second career. The only problem is, my husband hates it.](https://foodlets.com/2018/10/23/i-love-cooking-so-much-ive-made-it-my-second-career-the-only-problem-is-my-husband-hates-it/) - "Oh, your husband must think he hit the jackpot!" That's what a guy said to me this weekend as he bit into a lasagna cup I made for a friend's party. If he only knew. My husband hates my cooking. It's "too healthy", not like his mom made it or would be better if it came straight
- [I've felt fat my whole life. Here's what I'm telling my daughters so they can skip that.](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/30/ive-felt-fat-my-whole-life-heres-what-im-telling-my-daughters-so-they-can-skip-that/) - "You're looking pretty fat, Charity!" My grandpa used to say this when I came to visit as a kid. That was his actual greeting. A scrappy little girl with skinny legs and a poochy tummy, I looked like Eloise. Just substitute a mobile home on a tiny farm for the Plaza hotel and there I
- [Easy Chocolate Cake that's Rich, Delicious and Only Needs 1 Bowl](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/27/old-fashioned-chocolate-cake/) - There's so much to love about this chocolate cake recipe, because it's the best: You need only one bowl and a handful of simple ingredients to get delicious results. But here's the real selling point: The deep chocolate taste and texture is NOTHING like what you get in a box mix. It's the best. That's
- [Peanut butter chocolate chip pie](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/12/peanut-butter-chocolate-chip-pie/) - FOR PAUL'S BIRTHDAY I made a decadent dessert inspired by Dorie Greenspan's Chocolate Peanut Butter Torte. But because I didn't have quite everything on her shopping list available in Italy, I adapted it to suit my supermarket. The result was delicious and if I wasn't trying to transform myself from a formerly pregnant person into
- [corn dog mini muffins and sautéed green beans with garlic](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/20/corn-dog-mini-muffins-and-sauteed-green-beans-with-garlic/) - IS IT ME OR ARE CORN DOGS having a moment? I've seen tons of ideas all over Pinterest, including this gorgeous batch of fried mini dogs from Food Glorious Food, and decided to give it a whirl. The results were mixed: one-year-old Estelle liked them, nearly three-year-old Phoebe wasn't thrilled. If you love your furry
- [Simple Summer Favorites for Families: Easy Summer Recipes Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2020/06/25/simple-summer-favorites-for-families-easy-summer-recipes-kids-love/) - With four kids at home all day, every day, just ALLLL the time, I've come to depend on a handful of simple but fresh recipes that I'm basically cooking on repeat. These are the easy summer recipes kids love: Kale with Bacon & Cranberries: You KNOW kale is good for your kids but... This is
- [Easy Granola Recipe](https://foodlets.com/2020/06/23/easy-granola-recipe/) - Homemade granola is crunchy, lightly sweet without adding too much sugar or added stabilizers like the kind you find at the store. This easy granola recipe is fresh and delicious! Especially with homemade yogurt. What makes this granola recipe easy? I updated one of my favorite granola recipes to make it: easier and more friendly
- [Creamy Dreamy Orange Cupcake Recipe](https://foodlets.com/2020/06/19/orange-cupcakes-recipe-cupcake-cookbook-for-kids/) - This orange cupcake recipe is so sweet and creamy, giving Hostess Orange Cupcakes a run for their money. Straight out of my book, "Cupcake Cookbook for Kids", this cupcake recipe includes a 2-ingredient filling you'll fall in love with. Best of all, they're simple enough to make with kids. Really! How to make this orange
- [The Best Grilled Salmon Recipe Is So Easy: 3 Steps & My Kids Love It!](https://foodlets.com/2019/06/17/best-grilled-salmon-recipe-kids-will-eat/) - You need exactly 2 ingredients to make the best grilled salmon recipe I've ever had. This recipe is a hit with all four of my kids eat AND my go-to crowd pleaser for dinner parties. I learned how to make this grilled salmon recipe from my mom and brother when we were home in Washington
- [12 Dinners with 5 Ingredients or Less...that Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/10/dinners-5-ingredients/) - Sometimes dinner just needs to be easy. Because most parents (including myself) find it tough to make dinner every single night. That's why I love having a stable of dinners with 5 ingredients or less on hand. Not counting salt and pepper, these are a dozen delicious dinners with five ingredients or less, that all
- [easy red velvet cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/2020/06/17/easy-red-velvet-cupcakes/) - These easy red velvet cupcakes are fresh from the pages of my new book, Cupcake Cookbook for Kids! I'm so excited to share all the fun (and still doable) ideas in this book, starting with the silkiest red velvet cupcakes you'll ever have. And bonus: they're so easy your kids can make them. I love
- [How to Make Yogurt in Your Instant Pot (SO EASY!)](https://foodlets.com/2020/06/08/how-to-make-yogurt-instant-pot-easy/) - I never knew how easy it was to make homemade yogurt in my Instant Pot. And ever since I've figured out all that you only need two ingredients -- milk and yogurt -- I've been making a batch of yogurt every week. No added sugar. Just gorgeous homemade yogurt everyone loves, all from your Instant
- [Chocolate Steel Cut Oats Recipe](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/23/chocolate-steel-cut-oats-recipe/) - My kids call this Chocolate Steel Cut Oats recipe "porridge". As in, "Can we make the porridge again today?". Everyday. My two biggest girls mastered the super simple technique and made their own batch of Chocolate Steel Cut Oats today. Those brilliant ladies even doubled it so they'd have enough to enjoy leftovers for snack.
- [5 questions for Marina Delio, author of The Yummy Mummy Kitchen](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/22/5-questions-for-marina-delio-author-of-the-yummy-mummy-kitchen/) - I NEED ALL THE HELP I CAN GET. Which is why I love grilling other parents who are in the trenches as well. Marina Delio's new cookbook, "The Yummy Mummy Kitchen", is so beautiful and full of fresh ideas, I knew she'd have a few tricks up her sleeves for feeding kids. From Brussels sprouts
- [Italian lessons: How to take kids to a restaurant](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/15/italian-lessons-how-to-take-kids-to-a-restaurant/) - Say what you will about French parenting but when it comes to food and family around a table, no one does it better, or enjoys it more, than Italians. We've lived in Rome for three years, where our baby and toddler were both born, and while our Dolce Vita's had its share of ups and
- [Your Secret Weapon for an  Instant Dinner: DIY Rotisserie Chicken Sandwiches](https://foodlets.com/2016/02/20/diy-rotisserie-chicken-sandwiches-and-raw-veggies-with-3-dips-the-fastest-dinner-youll-never-make/) - Sometimes a dinner is so fast it makes itself. That's the case with one of our favorite ways to use rotisserie chicken: DIY rotisserie chicken sandwiches served along with raw veggies. And for that last part, we like to make things interesting. But still it is not like the one we get in the popular
- [Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Tex-Mex](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/11/slow-cooker-shredded-chicken-tex-mex/) - WHEN IT'S HOT, HOT, HOT outside, the last thing I want is to be inside cooking dinner beside an even hotter stove. Enter the slow cooker. I used to hate this thing, mostly because I could never find a recipe that worked without a package of onion soup mix. But this chicken recipe turned out to
- [Easy Blueberry Cobbler with Frozen Blueberries](https://foodlets.com/2019/05/29/easy-blueberry-cobbler-frozen-blueberries/) - We've made 10 cobblers in the last few weeks, testing every possible cobbler recipe idea I could think of and landed on this one. Because it's the best: Easy Blueberry Cobbler with Frozen Blueberries! This easy cobbler recipe is so good, I included it in my second kids's cookbook: "Kid Chef Junior Bakes". How to
- [10 Ways to Help Picky Kids Enjoy Healthy Foods](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/02/foodlets-rules-for-2014-whats-important-and-why-were-doing-this/) - The idea behind Foodlets has always been a testing ground for feeding kids, specifically to get kids to eat healthier food--and love it! My goal was to uncover the secret sauce that turns babies, toddlers, preschoolers and even their older counterparts into tiny people who enjoy eating real food. People who are open to trying
- [little sandwiches for lunch: rollie pollies kids can't resist](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/19/little-sandwiches-for-lunch-rolly-pollies-kids-cant-resist/) - THERE'S USUALLY A WAY TO MAKE it more interesting, but not always time. I went to a parents' discussion at our local library last night, something that made me feel extremely grown-up, where the social worker who was speaking described parenthood in two ways: sometimes it's about surviving, other times we're thriving. Immediately I thought
- [bread machine whole wheat rolls with yogurt & oats](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/31/homemade-whole-wheat-rolls-with-yogurt-oats/) - WELL, WE DID IT AGAIN. And I actually can't believe it. After a week that included 1-2-3 then 4 and 5 different household members succumbing to the nastiest little tummy virus in the South, we had another dinner party this weekend. It sounds counterintuitive (and a little crazy) but the house needed a good scrubbing
- [Cheeseburger Hand Pies with Puff Pastry](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/13/cheeseburger-hand-pies/) - Cheeseburger hand pies are what happens when you cross a juicy cheeseburger with a croissant. AMAZING. Cheeseburger Hand Pies are Perfect for Picky Eaters Also, if you've got picky eaters cheeseburger hand pies are for you. One of the (bazillion) lessons I've learned about feeding my tribe is about spin-offs. Keep your eyes open for
- [Zucchini Banana Bread](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/26/zucchini-banana-bread/) - Zucchini Banana Bread is what you make when you can't decide which sounds better (or don't have enough of either one). Combine the best of both breads into a moist and flavorful treat: Zucchini Banana Bread! When I cooked through Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines, her banana bread recipe was delicious but you know what
- [cheese tortellini recipe idea with spinach and bacon](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/13/tortellini-recipe-idea-spinach-bacon/) - This cheese tortellini recipe idea without red sauce is one of my favorite easy dinners for kids. And we made it out of need on one very, very cold night. (And then kept making it and making it!) There was an ice storm. Way before the cheese tortellini recipe idea came in. I don't have
- [One-Pot Pasta with Sausage & Spinach](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/06/one-pot-pasta-sausage-spinach/) - When it's time for a super easy, totally delicious pasta dish that only takes one pot, this is your new go to! This one-pot pasta with sausage and spinach is a busy parent's dream: easy to make, nutritious enough and everybody loves it. Four thumbs up from the kids! We've been getting this gorgeous sausage
- [Straccetti, arugula salad with sizzling strips of steak and Parmesan cheese](https://foodlets.com/2011/08/18/straccetti/) - STRACCETTI IS A CLASSIC ITALIAN MEAL, so naturally I'd never heard of it. That was before I moved to Rome and discovered that Italian food is more than pasta, tomatoes and cheese. (But they do that very well.) One of my favorite summer meals has turned out to be a version of the Big Salad
- [Simple Chocolate Rice Pudding (Starting with Leftover Rice)](https://foodlets.com/2020/04/10/simple-chocolate-rice-pudding-leftover-rice/) - Did you know you can make a simple chocolate rice pudding from leftover rice? Well, you can. And it's so good that your kids will want to eat it for breakfast. And that will be fine because this simple chocolate rice pudding is basically brown rice and milk with a bonus egg--and it all starts
- [how to make mini marshmallow flowers](https://foodlets.com/2014/06/15/low-sugar-lemon-cupcakes-with-marshmallow-flowers/) - SHHH. There's a very small person sleeping right next to me, which is the only reason I'm able to post today's cupcake recipe and how to make mini marshmallow flowers tutorial. That, and even on Father's Day, my brave husband has taken all three of our "bigger" kids out to breakfast and to church. Alone.
- [how to make little fish cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/2015/05/19/how-to-make-little-fish-cupcakes/) - We've had our eyes on these little fish cupcakes for a while. Cute, right? Our version of little fish cupcakes is very similar, except we skipped the special eyes and just went with M&Ms. I'll show you how we did it right here. These are the big finish for our pool party food drive birthday party
- [How to Make Mermaid Tail Cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/26/how-to-make-mermaid-tail-cupcakes/) - These mermaid tail cupcakes are the cutest -- and very close to easiest -- cupcakes I've ever made. What you need to make mermaid tail cupcakes ll you need are three things: Silicone mold Candy melts Sugar pearls How to Make mermaid tail cupcakes Melt candy melts in a microwave safe dish. Fill silicone mold,
- [Grated carrot salad, a recipe inspired by "French Kids Eat Everything"](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/10/grated-carrot-salad-a-recipe-inspired-by-french-kids-eat-everything/) - I don't know about you but my kids aren't usually into salad. There was a time when my preschooler, Phoebe, would spot a great leaf of anything on her plate, be it basil, parsley or actual lettuce, immediately pick it off and deposit onto MY plate while explaining "I don't yike salad." Sigh. However, this
- [baby carrots in pots, a step-by-step tutorial](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/04/baby-carrots-growing-in-spring-pots/) - COMBINING CUTE IDEAS WITH FRESH VEGETABLES is just about the best. These carrots are one more super simple way to get kids eating more veggies. Here's just how you do it. 1. Gather your materials. Baby carrots, preferably the thick kind (some are whittled extra thin) Curly parsley Toothpick Terra cotta pots (mine are actually a
- [Chicken and Bell Pepper Pasta Bake](https://foodlets.com/2018/07/09/chicken-and-bell-pepper-pasta-bake/) - There's nothing I like more than a yummy dinner that can be made from the leftovers of ANOTHER yummy dinner. Cook once, eat twice, cheer, relax and repeat. Tonight's dinner started with our awesome lemon chicken earlier in the week. This time I cooked it on the grill but you could certainly throw your chicken
- [A healthy breakfast recipe for busy mornings: Make-ahead egg sandwiches with the works!](https://foodlets.com/2017/09/19/make-ahead-egg-cheese-ham-veggie-breakfast-sandwiches/) - What's the secret/only hope for a healthy breakfast recipe on busy school days? A make-ahead breakfast sandwich like this one and a healthy drink to go with it like ORANGINA. For our favorite new healthy breakfast recipe, starts with leftover roasted vegetables. This could be roasted cauliflower. Or oven roasted broccoli. Sauteed spinach would be
- [Easy Coconut Lentil Curry](https://foodlets.com/2020/03/24/easy-coconut-lentil-curry/) - There aren't a lot of steps to this easy coconut lentil curry. It comes together with a few pantry staples and simply bubbles on the stove for about half an hour, or an episode of Paw Patrol, however you mark your time these days. That's all there is to this easy coconut lentil curry, a
- [21 Recipes Kids Can Make](https://foodlets.com/2020/03/14/recipes-kids-can-make/) - With four kids, I'm a big believer in recipes kids can make. Cooking teaches kids an important life skill but so much more: science, service and even patience. With excerpts from my cookbooks books for kids "Super Simple Baking for Kids", "Pizza School" and "Kid Chef Junior Bakes", my kids have made all of these
- [Cook for the Cure: {Real} Strawberry Cupcakes & Strawberry Buttercream Without Food Coloring](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/06/strawberry-cupcakes-strawberry-buttercream-with-no-food-coloring-at-all/) - These pink cupcakes might just help save lives. That's right. But they're also pink cupcakes without food coloring or artificial strawberry flavoring. They're pink cupcakes, without food coloring or flavors that are part of 10,000 Cupcakes & Cook for the Cure. And KitchenAid will donate $1 to support the fight against breast cancer right now. I'm thrilled to
- [Getting kids to eat green food: 5 questions with Sarah Matheny, author of "More Peas, Thank You"](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/14/getting-kids-to-eat-green-food-5-questions-with-sarah-matheny-author-of-more-peas-thank-you/) - WHEN IT COMES TO FEEDING KIDS, Sarah Matheny wrote the book. Literally. And she did it twice! Her new book, "More Peas, Thank You" has just come out and it's so full of fun ideas for vegetarian meals we had to ask her a bit more about how she does it. 1. Are there any
- [oven roasted broccoli with sea salt](https://foodlets.com/2013/08/28/oven-roasted-broccoli/) - WE ROAST EVERYTHING. That's my number one, hands-down secret to getting kids to eat vegetables. Roast them. Because it makes them delicious. We've done it with asparagus, carrots, cauliflower and of course potatoes and the result is always the same: the kids love them. The fact that it's easy doesn't hurt either. That's why we tried broccoli last week.
- [Firing the Food Police on Christmas and Other Strategies for a Low Stress Family Meal](https://foodlets.com/2012/12/21/firing-the-food-police-on-christmas/) - THERE ARE THINGS TO WORRY ABOUT over the holidays--Santa’s gifts arriving on time, icy roads, whether you’ll lose it when your mom tells you to stop worrying because after all, you turned out okay!--but stressing out over what the munchkins eat is definitely not one of them. Not this year. In two days,
- [Pancakes To Go! 2 Kinds of Sheet Pan Pancakes + 3 Simple Ways to Make Any Mix Healthier & Tastier](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/23/pancakes-to-go-2-kinds-of-sheet-pan-pancakes-made-healthier-and-yummier-from-a-mix/) - With after-school activities breathing down my neck coming up, I'm experimenting with tons of healthy snacks. Portable snacks. Really just any good snack for kids that will stay with them until dinner. And somehow I arrived here. At pancakes. But these are not just your average pancakes. You can bake TWO WHOLE PANS of these
- [the downside of cooking from scratch](https://foodlets.com/2013/06/21/the-downside-of-cooking-from-scratch/) - IT ALL STARTED IN ITALY. When my husband and I moved to Rome four and a half years ago, I didn't speak a word of Italian (yet) and found the grocery stores mystifying. A bit more produce, infinitely more cheese and much less in the way of processed foods, almost none that I recognized anyway.
- [Why I'm still buying organic food for my family](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/13/why-im-still-buying-organic-food-for-my-family/) - Oh boy. Aren't the cynics laughing now? This week, USA Today reported on a new study, noting that organic produce may not be more nutritious than conventionally grown vegetables. But just a second. As I've often mentioned here on Foodlets, I believe in buying organic. And in my opinion, the story around this four-year study
- [Easy Eggplant Parmesan (No Dredging, No Frying)](https://foodlets.com/2015/11/05/easy-eggplant-parmesan-no-dredging-no-frying/) - This no-fry eggplant parmesan got a solid "5 Stars!" from my mother-in-law. "Thumbs Up!" from my father-in-law. Baby Violet is one year old and DEVOURED her first eggplant parmesan without caring whether it was dredged, easy or not! Ditto for my six year old. Here's how you can make it too: 2 Shortcuts for Deliciously
- [Super Simple BBQ Chicken Tenders](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/21/super-simple-bbq-chicken-tenders/) - I love this BBQ chicken so much that I've served it every week for the last three weeks straight. You can prep it days in advance or in the middle of a busy morning to eat later that night. Both make delicious results. For the marinade, make a shortcut and use your favorite Italian dressing
- [Leftover Mashed Potato Chowder in the Slow Cooker: "Double Thumbs Up Soup"](https://foodlets.com/2019/11/30/slow-cooker-leftover-mashed-potato-chowder/) - What can you do with leftover mashed potatoes? Make this easy peasy Leftover Mashed Potato Chowder! Just combine a chopped onion, a few carrots, a chopped pepper or two plus a cup or so of frozen corn. Throw everything into the slow cooker with chicken or veggie stock and bam. The most delicious soup magically
- [Simple beef, broccoli and carrot stir-fry](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/07/simple-beef-broccoli-stir-fry-with-carrots/) - THEY DON'T REALLY DO TAKE-OUT IN ITALY. They definitely don't do a lot of ethnic food either. And even if they did, stir-fry is one of those dishes that's so easy to make at home, plus a million times healthier, why not just whip it up? The preparation becomes easier when an air fryer is
- [Vegetarian Pasta Bake: Creamy Mushroom, Butternut Squash & Spinach](https://foodlets.com/2019/11/13/vegetarian-pasta-bake-creamy-mushroom-butternut-squash-spinach/) - I saw a recipe for a DELICIOUS looking mushroom lasagna the other day but, oh the layers. Who has time to produce all those layers? So I gave it the Foodlets treatment (easier, healthier and therefore more kid/parent friendly)...and yum. This vegetarian pasta bake--loaded with creamy mushrooms (which happen to be awesome for you!), butternut
- [Sausage, Kale and Bean Soup: A Nutritious Soup Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2019/11/01/sausage-kale-bean-soup/) - Soup season is the best. I love a hearty dinner full of fresh ingredients that comes together quickly, reheats like a dream (Lunch is ready!) and freezes beautifully for another dinner altogether. Our newest family favorite is Sausage, Kale and Bean Soup, a simple recipe that kids (and husbands) love! We get our sausage (and
- [homemade whole wheat apple bread](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/24/homemade-whole-wheat-apple-bread/) - MUFFINS, YOU MAY HAVE MET YOUR MATCH. My mother-in-law sent us home from a recent Florida visit with a bread making machine, and boy have we been baking. I know it's very 1996 to say it but, I love making bread in this thing! All you do is dump in ingredients, then wait. Um, I
- [Got a Tea Pot & a Halloween Costume? That's All You Need for the Best 4th Birthday Party Ever](https://foodlets.com/2015/09/02/why-tea-parties-are-the-best-birthday-parties/) - When Estelle turned four this year, we had a tea party for four friends. All the guests wore costumes. It was our simplest party ever, and it was awesome. Number of guests: 4 + siblings The Food: This was a mid-morning tea party, so we served snacks. Lots of them. A tray full of kid-friendly snacks
- [The Hot Fudge Lava Cake Recipe So Easy Kids Can Make It!](https://foodlets.com/2019/09/13/hot-fudge-lava-cake-recipe-easy/) - This is it. the Hot Fudge Lava Cake recipe that's SO easy even kids can make it! Also, it's delicious. How to make my favorite simple lava cake recipe... And most exciting of all...this is an excerpt from my brand new book, Kid Chef Junior Bakes! I'm so excited to share this with you,
- [12 Make-Ahead Snacks for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2019/08/13/make-ahead-snacks-for-kids/) - If there's ONE thing we can all agree on as parents, it's this: kids are SO hungry after school. And make-ahead snacks save the day every time. These healthy make-ahead snacks for kids are easy to pull out because you prep ahead of time and bam! Make-ahead snacks full of whole ingredients -- but easy
- [The Best Lentil Recipe: Lentils with Kielbasa](https://foodlets.com/2018/12/31/the-best-lentil-recipe-lentils-with-kielbasa/) - Lentils are so good for you! Full of protein and fiber (which kids often don't get enough of), the health benefits of eating lentils are huge. But today I want to talk about something else... The best lentil recipe I've ever made. We've done lentil soups here and there, but feels heartier. A main dish
- [3 DIY Snacks Kids Can Make (and Eat) with Cheerios](https://foodlets.com/2015/08/15/3-diy-snacks-kids-can-make-and-eat-with-cheerios/) - Who knew Cheerios were so fun? Seriously. Who was aware of this and why didn't they tell me earlier? Inspired by today's sponsored post, I got my hands on FOUR kinds of Cheerios (again, who knew?) and put the rascals to work. These are 3 ideas I found online then adapted in our own way. We
- [Fresh strawberry milk](https://foodlets.com/2012/06/15/fresh-strawberry-milk/) - While I enjoy my mini-maternity leave, I'm thrilled to present a guest post from fellow mom and former colleague, Marie Facini. The genius in this drink is threefold: it’s exceedingly simple to prepare, it’s a great way to pack the all-important calcium punch, and it puts spring’s bounty of strawberries to good use. I actually
- [Shortcut Tomato Pie](https://foodlets.com/2018/07/10/shortcut-tomato-pie/) - When I posted a picture of the VERY HARD TO MAKE tomato pie the other day, my friend Liz shot me an email immediately. "Try this shortcut version!" she cheered. We did. It was a little spicy. So we tried a second version and here's what my kindergartener said: "This is SO good and so
- [Easy Focaccia Bread with Garlic & Rosemary](https://foodlets.com/2019/07/01/easy-focaccia-bread-garlic-rosemary/) - Well, the kids and I are obsessed. I've made this easy focaccia bread studded with fresh garlic and rosemary every day for the last three days (plus several more batches last week)--and no one is complaining. That's because focaccia bread with garlic and rosemary is basically heaven in your hand. Soft and fluffy with JUST
- [My Kids' Favorite Easy Pickle Recipe: Refrigerator Pickles in Minutes!](https://foodlets.com/2019/06/20/kids-favorite-easy-pickle-recipe-refrigerator-pickles/) - We have SO MANY CUCUMBERS in the garden right now, which means I've been making pickles. And pickles. And more pickles. Every summer I make at least five types of pickles and this easy pickle recipe is my four kids' favorite, ever. The good news? If you've got a couple of cucumbers and a jar,
- [Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad](https://foodlets.com/2019/06/20/easy-creamy-cucumber-salad/) - My kids can't stop eating this easy creamy cucumber salad! Seriously, I had to make a second bowl just to snap this picture. But that's the only complaint you'll get from me. This easy cucumber salad is full of summer flavor and only needs the simplest creamy dressing: mayonnaise, vinegar, salt and pepper. Just slice,
- [10 Easy Zucchini Recipes (Tested by Real Kids)](https://foodlets.com/2019/06/11/10-easy-zucchini-recipes-tested-by-real-kids/) - From a 10-minute buttery chicken dinner to the richest chocolate cake you'll have all summer, these are my family's favorite 10 zucchini recipes of all time. And they're all easy. That's a good thing too because if you're a gardener, you've never seen anything like the bounty of even a single zucchini plant. Every summer
- [Easy Peasy Homemade Parmesan Cheese Crackers](https://foodlets.com/2019/06/04/easy-homemade-parmesan-cheese-crackers/) - You only need 5 ingredients to make these easy homemade parmesan cheese crackers and guess what? There's no food processor required. What you need to make easy homemade parmesan cheese crackers Standing mixer with paddle attachment or mixing bowl with electric beaters Baking sheet 2 silicone baking mats or 2 pieces of parchment paper rolling
- [carrot cake muffins with cream cheese filling](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/28/carrot-cake-muffins-with-cream-cheese-filling/) - THESE ARE DELICIOUS. I could probably end this post here but I'll go on at least long enough to share the super simple -- and healthy -- recipe. It was inspired by a comment from my friend and most loyal Foodlets reader, Lori, who substituted carrots for zucchini in a muffin-baking pinch. Whether orange or
- [Because Even My "Mom Shorts" Were Feeling Pinchy, I Drank SkinnyTox Wellness Tea for 2 Weeks](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/19/because-even-my-mom-shorts-were-feeling-pinchy-i-drank-skinnytox-wellness-tea-for-2-weeks/) - *SPONSORED POST There comes a time in a mom's life when she just can't take it. When she says, I'm ALREADY in my "just buy a bigger size" shorts and these things are still fightin' me every time I get to the button. You win, Costco shorts, you win. It's uncomfortable to be overweight. And TIRING.
- [10-Minute Buttery Chicken with Zucchini & Herbs](https://foodlets.com/2019/04/11/10-minute-buttery-chicken-zucchini-herbs/) - The fastest chicken dinner I've ever made started yesterday at 4pm, when we finally rolled through the door. A sweaty group of kids fussing at each other. You know, the basic after-school mode. And on Wednesdays -- hooray! -- there's an extra hurdle to leap over: gymnastics starts at 5pm. I don't even have to
- [Easy Shrimp Pasta](https://foodlets.com/2019/04/16/easy-shrimp-pasta/) - This easy shrimp pasta comes together in 15 minutes! All you need is pasta, large shrimp, a handful of cherry tomatoes, garlic and butter. Toss on a few herbs and dinner is served in less time than it takes for Wendy Williams to dish out the Hot Topics. Plus, our easy shrimp pasta got a
- [The Best Lasagna Cups in the World](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/26/the-best-lasagna-cups-in-the-world/) - Nothing to see here. Just lasagna you can HOLD IN YOUR HAND! S-O-L-D, says all four kids. Well, almost... Foodlets Reviews Foodlets Reviews are real comments from my four very real children. And I never include a recipe that doesn't get at least 3 THUMBS UPS. Phoebe (8): "I really like how the crispy edges
- [3 Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Families](https://foodlets.com/2019/03/11/easy-instant-pot-recipes-for-busy-families/) - Did you just get a new Instant Pot? I've had mine for a couple of years and wasn't sure where to start. Easy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Families These easy Instant Pot recipes are the best combination of simple and delicious -- says my whole family of six! 1. Hard Boiled Eggs The 5-5-5
- [a new spin on...brussels sprouts: just add cranberries](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/23/a-new-spin-on-brussels-sprouts-just-add-cranberries/) - DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE RECIPE FOR BRUSSELS SPROUTS? Let me rephrase that, do your kids have a favorite way that you make Brussels sprouts? Ours is roasted brussels sprouts with olive oil and salt, though I've seen tasty ideas for pan cooking too. But when we had a small surplus of cranberries in the
- [pan cooked kale with garlic and lemon](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/11/pan-cooked-kale-with-garlic-and-lemon/) - SURE WE'VE GOT KALE CHIPS, but this is another way to make the super green stuff kid-friendly. And you might be surprised. It's a take on cicoria (dandelion greens) which is an amazing Italian green and a side dish we used to order every time we saw it on a menu in Rome. These days, particularly
- [oven roasted cauliflower](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/23/oven-roasted-cauliflower/) - YOU'VE HEARD ME SAY IT OVER AND OVER. And it's not just to be annoying (I gave that up in high school. Mostly.) If I want my kids to eat more vegetables, I always roast them. Cauliflower is actually the most delicious. It's our kids' favorite. Really. And here's another bonus. It's easy. Turn on the
- [The World's Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe](https://foodlets.com/2018/09/11/the-worlds-best-chocolate-chip-cookies/) - After all this time, we've finally got a chocolate chip cookie recipe on the site but it's not just any recipe. It's THE BEST chocolate chip cookie recipe I've ever had. It's included in my book, Super Simple Baking for Kids, so you can bet we tested and tested this recipe. I can safely say
- [Make-Ahead Honey Mustard Chicken](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/17/honey-mustard-chicken/) - "Can we make the chicken for them?" Phoebe whispered in my ear. (And when I say "whispered", I mean she breathed. Little puffs of inspiration delivered straight to my ears. How can one request be so tickly and so excited all at once?) Paul's parents were visiting from Florida and after a disastrous dinner the night
- [Shortcut Tomato Pie Made Miniature](https://foodlets.com/2018/07/13/shortcut-tomato-pie-made-miniature/) - I've been working on a tomato pie recipe all summer and guess what? Our Shortcut Tomato Pie is it! My friend Liz manages the kitchen at Weaver Street Market, our local co-op, and she lead me to this masterpiece. "Use biscuits as the dough!" she said. So we did and man, what a hit. Naturally
- [Amazingly Quick & Easy Broccoli Soup that Starts with a Bag of Frozen Broccoli](https://foodlets.com/2016/01/23/broccoli-soup-kids-love/) - I've tried making broccoli soup for my kids before. With tons of cheese. And love. It took a ton of love to grate all that cheese alone, and guess what? They hated it. The soup. I'm assuming (for my own mental health) they're into the love. This time I went simpler. MUCH simpler. There's no milk
- [the homemade dressing that made our kids love kale](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/21/the-kale-salad-our-kids-love-the-secret-balsamic-maple-dressing/) - I know. I've already lost you. Kids who "love" kale? But there's a secret: it's this dressing. The balsamic vinegar combined with a shot of real maple syrup is so sweet and tangy that the bitterness of kale actually works perfectly with it. It's the homemade dressing that made our kids love kale. Still Don't Believe
- [Sautéed Kale with Bacon & Cranberries](https://foodlets.com/2018/09/04/sauteed-kale-with-bacon-cranberries/) - "My kids love kale!" You guys, I'm not just being obnoxious. I'm showing you your future. There are actually 3 kale recipes my kids love--and yours can too: Kale salad with maple-balsamic dressing Roasted kale chips And this one. Even my husband likes sautéed kale with bacon and cranberries. The one who devoted a whole
- [The Simple Soft Pretzel Recipe Even Your Kids Can Make!](https://foodlets.com/2018/10/09/simple-homemade-soft-pretzels/) - Inspired by the biggest package of yeast I've ever seen (Costco, you complete me.) we're baking and baking some more! Today it was a new soft pretzel recipe and...BOY WERE THEY GOOD! What I love about this soft pretzel recipe: It's so easy. My nine-year-old made the dough by herself with a couple of minor
- [4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies: The Simplest (Gluten-Free) Recipe Ever](https://foodlets.com/2018/09/13/4-ingredient-peanut-butter-cookies/) - If recipe testing has taught me anything this week, it's this: Not everyone likes peanut butter cookies. For example, two and a half of my kids. (One can't decide. Because #kids.) But if you like peanut butter cookies these are the peanut butter cookies for you. Actually, if you like peanut butter cookies that your
- [Healthy Oatmeal in the Microwave? This Old-Fashioned Apple Pie Oatmeal is Our Kids' Favorite!](https://foodlets.com/2018/12/07/healthy-oatmeal-in-the-microwave-this-old-fashioned-apple-pie-oatmeal-is-our-kids-favorite/) - This healthy oatmeal tastes like apple pie but don't let either of those phrases fool you: it's easy to make and politely cooks in the microwave for 6 minutes while you carry on about your morning. Also, this healthy oatmeal is my kids' new favorite breakfast. Packed with fiber and good-for-you extras like cinnamon and
- [Make-Ahead Broccoli, Ham & Cheese Pockets](https://foodlets.com/2018/03/02/make-ahead-broccoli-ham-cheese-pockets/) - We loved our Spinach, Egg & Cheese Pockets for breakfast so much, I whipped up a version for lunch and the results are basically the same: DE-DE-DE-LICIOUS. And in between all that gooey cheese and satisfying ham is a cheeky serving of veggies. Tucked politely inside, along for the ride. Not bad for a bag
- [BBQ pork & cheese quesadillas](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/01/bbq-pork-cheese-quesadillas/) - IT DOESN'T GET ANY EASIER. And in my condition (insane 36 weeks pregnant with number 3), there's nothing better. Using leftover pork roast, plus a little cheddar cheese, I diced my way to a simple dinner for four. Sometimes I sneak in shredded carrots for quesadillas, but this time I served veggies on the side
- [6 Crowdpleasers in a Bowl: Super Easy Soup Recipes Your Whole Family Will Love](https://foodlets.com/2019/01/29/super-easy-soup-recipes/) - Hearty, warm soup is always a winner for dinner. You know my goal as a parent is to have kids who eat healthy but also to eat together as a family. Enjoyably. So as a busy mom of four small kids, I need soup recipes that are fast, nutritious enough and this one's important, crowdpleasers!
- [Shortcut Swedish Meatballs: Ready in 30 Minutes](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/17/shortcut-swedish-meatballs/) - "IF YOU GUYS WILL TRY COUS COUS TONIGHT," I heard myself bargaining, "I'll make you pumpkin muffins for breakfast." And with three nods we had a deal. I was desperate. I already had this delicious pot of Shortcut Swedish Meatballs simmering on the stove when I realized I'd need something to serve with them, something
- [My Favorite Easy Smoothie Recipe: Chunky Monkey Green Smoothie](https://foodlets.com/2018/08/30/chunky-monkey-green-smoothie/) - I love this chunky monkey green smoothie so much, it's my favorite easy smoothie recipe! But not as much as my four-year-old. When she hears the blender (And who wouldn't?), you can be sure you'll have a small person at your hip with a suggestion: "How about if we share?" No problem. This chunky monkey
- [A One-Pot Dinner That's the Best of 2 Favorite Dinners: Chili-Roni!](https://foodlets.com/2018/11/01/one-pot-turkey-chili-macaroni/) - I've made this easy one-pot meal twice in the last two weeks. Because I love Chili-Roni. And so do the kids. If you're looking for a fast and easy meal your whole family will love, add Chili-Roni to your list. Because: One pot! That means the smallest amount of cleanup possible. It's fast. The whole
- [DIY bruschetta kids love](https://foodlets.com/2015/08/07/diy-bruschetta-kids-love/) - Well, something amazing happened. Picture 5:30pm. On a bad day. You know, when the kids are yelling and fussing, you're trying to get plates on the table and just as you do...everyone groans? Your husband is still at work and you're wondering why you even bother making fresh meals for a knee-high crowd who doesn't care? Now
- [How to Make the Best Baked Potatoes Ever](https://foodlets.com/2018/02/19/how-to-make-the-best-baked-potatoes-ever/) - This is the only recipe you'll ever need for baked potatoes. If you like baked potatoes with pillowy white centers and flavorful skins, make these now. Because EVERYONE will love them. Foodlets Reviews Real comments from my very real 4 children. I only add new recipes when we have at least 3 thumbs ups. Phoebe
- [Very Veggie Cheese Pinwheel Pizzas (Psst: The Sauce Is Loaded with Veggies!)](https://foodlets.com/2018/02/28/very-veggie-cheese-pinwheel-pizzas-psst-the-sauce-is-loaded-with-veggies/) - When I asked parents what dish they'd most like to see on our Foodlets Lunch menu for spring, one recipe beat out all the others. By a landslide. Very Veggie Cheese Pinwheel Pizzas! Loaded with our Veggie-Filled Tomato Sauce and bubbling cheese, these hand-held pizzas are the cutest way to get a cheeky serving of
- [Simple Sautéed Sweet Corn with Feta (Hint: Start with a Bag of Frozen Corn!)](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/25/simple-sauteed-sweet-corn-with-feta-hint-start-with-a-bag-of-frozen-corn/) - This simple sautéed corn is one of my favorite summer side dishes for kids--and the whole thing starts with a bag of frozen corn. It's easy to make and a total crowd-pleaser. You know my rule. I never post a recipe here unless three of my four small kids likes it. Full of fresh bell peppers,
- [The Most Colorful Cake Ever (Inside and Out!)](https://foodlets.com/2018/05/31/the-most-colorful-cake-ever-inside-and-out/) - Making this colorful layer cake is not hard. But let's just say that I watched 3 episodes of The Crown while making it. The results are adorable and the technique nearly foolproof, so if you have a few hours (and a hot British import on demand), I say go for it! How to make this
- [Chocolate Avocado Cookies (AKA "Chocolate Mystery Cookies")](https://foodlets.com/2018/05/31/chocolate-avocado-cookies-aka-chocolate-mystery-cookies/) - Chocolatey, chewy and as decadent as a brownie, your kids will NEVER guess the mystery ingredient. It's avocado. And these chocolate avocado cookies are total keepers. All you need to make them is a handful of common ingredients and a plain ol' mixing bowl. In just a few minutes, you'll have gorgeous cookies with an
- [Homemade skillet pizza with pepperoni, salami and peppers](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/13/homemade-skillet-pizza-with-pepperoni-and-peppers/) - BARBARA KINGSOLVER, in the gorgeous memoir, "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle", says her family eats pizza every Friday. Homemade pizza (her husband whips up the dough), and while toppings always vary, never having to think about "What's for dinner?" just simplifies their week. I think it's brilliant. But this particular pizza idea came from Jamie Oliver. He
- [Jack-O-Lantern Apricot Hand Pies for Halloween](https://foodlets.com/2018/10/12/jack-o-lantern-apricot-hand-pies-for-halloween/) - The sweetest way to make your kids squeal is only 3 ingredients away. How to make Jack-o-lantern apricot hand pies for Halloween Roll out pie dough, using your favorite homemade recipe or a sheet from the store. One large pie crust makes 5-6 hand pies. Use a glass to cut 8-12 circles (depending on how many
- [What to do with Eggplant: Ratatouille 2 Ways (Your Kids Will Love Them Both!)](https://foodlets.com/2018/07/03/what-to-do-with-eggplant-ratatouille-2-ways-your-kids-will-love-them-both/) - For the first time ever, I planted eggplant in my garden. And guess what? There's now an Eggplant Situation out there. So you can guess what's going on in here. All the eggplant recipes. I've experimented with Baked Eggplant Parmesan in summers past but this new idea is even simpler. Put a whole bunch of summer
- [Soy Butter Roasted Broccoli from "The Farmhouse Chef"](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/15/soy-butter-roasted-broccoli-from-the-farmhouse-chef/) - (Excerpted from "The Farmhouse Chef" by Jamie DeMent.) I am addicted to this dish. The magic combination of soy sauce and butter is unbeatable. You might find yourself licking the bottom of the serving dish, and there’s no shame in that. This recipe is versatile—you can substitute cauliflower, kohlrabi, turnips, or summer squash for the
- [Buttermilk Roasted Chicken from "The Farmhouse Chef"](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/14/buttermilk-roasted-chicken-from-the-farmhouse-chef/) - (Excerpted from "The Farmhouse Chef" by Jamie DeMent.) This recipe is the happy result of a late afternoon meltdown. I had planned to cook fried chicken for a crowd at the farm and, as often happens, the day ran away with me. Pigs got loose and tore up a freshly planted bed. I spent the
- [Best-Ever Taco Bake: The Taco Casserole Makeover (with Fresh Veggies) Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2018/05/18/best-ever-taco-bake-the-taco-casserole-makeover-with-fresh-veggies-kids-love/) - There's only one thing better than a one-pot meal full of fresh ingredients: A one-pot meal that everyone LOVES. That's this easy taco bake. A four-thumbs-up hit. Our fresh taco bake takes a classic dish and gives it the Foodlets treatment: making it healthier, simpler and as kid-friendly as ever. What's special about our best-ever
- [Country Carbonara with Bacon](https://foodlets.com/2018/05/11/country-carbonara-with-bacon/) - You know my rule about posting recipes here. At least three out of my four children have to give it a thumbs up. But... Sometimes I have to make an exception. Because sometimes those crazy kids just don't know. I've made this carbonara for a dozen adults now and every single one of them LOVED
- [Strawberry Bliss Protein Balls](https://foodlets.com/2018/03/02/strawberry-banana-energy-balls/) - Looking for a kid-friendly protein ball recipe without nuts? We're hooked on these Strawberry Bliss Protein Balls without a single sprinkle of added sugar. This recipe is very versatile so you can add only coconut, only banana chips or combine both. Our how-to pictures below show the banana version. What you need to make Strawberry
- [How to Make Double Chocolate Oatmeal in the Instant Pot or Slow Cooker](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/14/double-chocolate-oatmeal-in-the-instant-pot-or-slow-cooker/) - With a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a warm, rich and hearty breakfast that's lower in sugar than you think. Best of all, you just throw everything for these Double Chocolate Slow Cooker Oatmeal into an Instant Pot or a slow cooker before bed, and the whole thing cooks politely while you sleep.
- [Easy French Toast Casserole with Blueberries](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/29/easy-baked-french-toast-with-blueberries/) - Baked French toast casserole is one of my favorite special breakfasts. Like our awesome sheet pan pancakes, there's no flipping and everyone gets to dig in at once. Plus you can prep the whole thing the night before and just bake it when you're ready in the morning. What you need to make baked french
- [3-Ingredient Shortcut Danish Pastry](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/27/3-ingredient-shortcut-breakfast-pastries-in-cherry-apple/) - Around this time last year, my 7-year-old and I scoured Pinterest looking for the perfect Christmas breakfast. We settled on a recipe for lemon buns that looked amazing. Then proceeded to spend four hours making them. Guess how they turned out? Gooey. Drippy. Tasty but a totally laughable mess. This year, we're making one of
- [Mummy Fruit Pies for Halloween](https://foodlets.com/2017/10/09/mummy-fruit-pies-for-halloween/) - It doesn't get much sweeter than these mummy fruit pies for Halloween! With only a couple of ingredients, you can turn pie crust and fresh fruit into the breakfast, lunch or dessert of your kids' dreams. Is it necessary to make special treats like this? Nope! But it's fun. For me, for the kids, and
- [Kid-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Chili](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/20/slow-cooker-chicken-chili-with-bell-peppers-corn/) - This kid-friendly slow cooker chicken chili is one of the easiest dinners I've ever made. But it didn't start out that way. Back when this chicken chili was a Barefoot Contessa recipe, there were more steps, fewer veggies and certainly more spices. But this DELICIOUS version couldn't be simpler, or a bigger hit with my whole
- [Corn Chowder with a Healthy Twist: Our Kids Call it "Rainbow Chowder"](https://foodlets.com/2017/09/27/corn-chowder-with-a-healthy-twist-our-kids-call-it-rainbow-chowder/) - That's right, a healthier version of corn chowder with all the creamy goodness, plus a ton of fresh vegetables. What's special about this corn chowder with a healthy twist Instead of cups of cream, we use chicken stock plus a cup of milk. But don't worry! It's still really creamy, thanks to those naturally starchy
- [Make-Ahead Turkey Pesto Meatball Pockets](https://foodlets.com/2017/09/19/turkey-pesto-meatball-pockets/) - As the mom of four kids, here is one thing I believe: Making dinner doesn't always have to be so hard. Because sometimes it is. So hard. The problem with managing a household full of four small kids is that I have all these Pinterest-y ideas about how our lives should work. I picture it
- [Baked Turkey Pesto Meatballs (AKA Magical Pesto Meatballs!)](https://foodlets.com/2017/09/19/baked-turkey-pesto-meatballs/) - What makes these baked turkey pesto meatballs magical? Like our mac & cheese by the same name, it's all the veggies that are built right in. That's the magic. What makes these baked turkey pesto meatballs special Our meatballs are baked, not fried. So you pop one pan into the oven and never once worry
- [The Easy Breakfast Peach Crisp Your Kids Will Sit Quietly and Eat Without Fighting, Ever](https://foodlets.com/2017/09/11/the-easy-breakfast-peach-crisp-your-kids-will-sit-quietly-and-eat-without-fighting-ever/) - Just kidding. This breakfast peach crisp IS delicious. And just happens to be filled with good-for-you ingredients. But I have four small kids and it's rare that they sit down for breakfast without mayhem swirling in behind them. Someone spills their drink. Someone touches someone else's chair. You know. You've fed kids in the morning.
- [Magical Mac & Cheese Cups (with Pureed Sweet Potato + Cauliflower Baked Right In!)](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/30/magical-mac-cheese-cups-with-pureed-sweet-potato-cauliflower-baked-right-in/) - What's the best lunch for kids? Leftover dinner. Especially when you can transform a crowd pleaser like Magical Mac & Cheese into...Magical Mac & Cheese Cups in minutes. Start with the basic recipe for Magical Mac & Cheese, which happens to include as much veggies as it does cheese, and add three quick things: 2
- [The Healthy Snack My Kids Keep Asking For Again (and Again): Blueberry Blast Apple Pan Fritters](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/12/blueberry-blast-apple-pan-fritters/) - You only need three ingredients for these blueberry blast apple pan fritters. That's it. Blueberries. Flour. Applesauce. Combine those three things and you'll have a healthy snack I made for the kids three times today. The idea was recipe testing but I'll tell you this: Even after eating three batches, they still wanted more. Score!
- [No-Sugar Strawberry Fudgsicles](https://foodlets.com/2017/08/03/no-sugar-strawberry-fudgsicles/) - These homemade popsicles have been the hit of our back-to-school week. And trust me, we kind of needed one. There are SO MANY FEELINGS about third grade, first grade and apparently kindergarten is no picnic either. When I see the rascals come home so stressed -- and so very ready to rumble -- I like
- [Sheet Pan Lemon Chicken with Potatoes & Asparagus](https://foodlets.com/2017/07/28/sheet-pan-lemon-chicken-with-potatoes-asparagus/) - We flew to Denver to visit my mom's family when I was 10. My aunt made lemon chicken and I thought I'd never tasted anything so delicious. Juicy. Tangy. Since when do we put fruit on chicken? What is even happening? And why can't I stop eating it? Today's recipe is a riff on that
- [Chocolate Graham Crackers](https://foodlets.com/2017/07/07/chocolate-graham-crackers/) - I made a double batch of these chocolate graham crackers for Birthday Season this year. One batch of chocolate graham crackers for Violet's preschool party. One batch for George's. Same school, different classes, different days. Since George's celebration was a week later than Violet's I just popped his whole batch into the freezer and brought
- [Cheesy Summer Squash Tart with Sun Dried Tomatoes](https://foodlets.com/2017/07/03/cheesy-summer-squash-tart-with-sun-dried-tomatoes/) - This cheesy summer squash tart with sun dried tomatoes is my eight-year-old's favorite way to eat summer squash. Full of eggs, cheese, fresh basil and plenty of salt and pepper, the creamy filling pairs perfectly with puff pastry. (Because, what doesn't, right?) Plus it's a make-ahead dream. Put your cheesy summer squash tart together earlier
- [Taco Squash Boats](https://foodlets.com/2017/06/15/taco-squash-boats/) - If you're looking for a way to get your kids eating more vegetables, boats are the thing. We've made Italian Zucchini Boats and I'm thrilled to say two things about it: They used a lot of zucchini (a perk because I love actually using produce from our overflowing garden). They were a huge hit with
- [Cheesy Zucchini Bites](https://foodlets.com/2017/06/13/cheesy-zucchini-bites/) - There is so much zucchini bursting out of my garden right now! The only question I have is... How do I get the kids to enjoy zucchini? They'll eat it, sure. My kids are pretty good sports about food. (And we've worked at this for a LONG TIME, at one point even posting the 6
- [Homemade Sloppy Joes](https://foodlets.com/2017/05/31/homemade-sloppy-joes/) - When my soon to be 8-year-old asked for Homemade Sloppy Joes as her birthday dinner, I knew we had a hit! You know that very distinctive flavor of a good Sloppy Joe? The one I remember as a kid came out of a can, but man I loved that stuff. It turns out that you
- [Magic Muffins: The Healthy 5-Fruit & Vegetable Muffins Kids Love!](https://foodlets.com/2017/04/26/magic-muffins-the-healthy-hidden-fruit-vegetable-muffins-my-kids-love/) - Who among us has ever said, "Yep, my kids get ALL the fruit and vegetables they need. And then some." Not you? Me neither. To get the five recommended servings of vegetables and fruits into four kids every day, I serve veggies straight up but also add them into unsuspecting dishes: Eggs. Smoothies. Popsicles. And you better believe it,
- [Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins](https://foodlets.com/2017/03/15/double-apple-cinnamon-oat-muffins/) - Do your kids love muffins? When it comes to muffins, my four rascals are all-in. That's why I'm always trying new spins on healthy muffin ideas. After several recipe tests and tweaks, it's unanimous: These apple cinnamon oat muffins are the winners. What's the secret? Doubling up on the apples. Applesauce, meet your parents: Granny Smith
- [Lemon-Lime Pound Cake Parfaits with Rainbow Fruit](https://foodlets.com/2017/03/07/lemon-lime-yogurt-pound-cake-parfaits-with-rainbow-fruit/) - These lemon-lime yogurt pound cake parfaits have the perfect topping to make anyone's St. Patrick's Day extra special: Rainbow fruit! And best of all, this major splash of color comes without any artificial food coloring at all. First, comes the better-for-you pound cake. This one's full of zesty lemons and limes, Greek yogurt and to get that sweet green
- [The 2-ingredient chocolate frosting recipe that'll become your new favorite](https://foodlets.com/2017/02/06/the-2-ingredient-chocolate-frosting-recipe-thatll-become-your-new-favorite/) - I love this 2-ingredient chocolate frosting recipe so much. It's a variation of a recipe I saw in the New York Times but I gave it a Foodlets update (which always means it's either faster, healthier or cuter and in this case, it's the second one. #healthierfoodforkids) What you need to make 2-ingredient chocolate buttercream
- [Simple sausage and peppers sliders: A wholesome 15-minute dinner kids love](https://foodlets.com/2017/01/05/simple-sausage-and-peppers-sliders/) - I discovered these simple sausage and pepper sliders a few months ago when I was at the grocery store with two of my girls. They're five and seven and this was a slow moving day. Unfortunately it turned out to be the kind where you suddenly notice that your kids' hair isn't really brushed until you're
- [Zucchini boats: An easy way to use zucchini kids love](https://foodlets.com/2016/07/18/zucchini-boats-an-easy-way-to-use-zucchini-kids-love/) - If you have tons of zucchini, this is the recipe for you. Actually, let's not sell these zucchini boats short. If you have even a few zucchini, this may very well be the recipe for you! I've made zucchini boats for my family no less than six times this summer. In the span of one zucchini
- [Taco Soup: a Fresh Take on a Family Favorite, Done in 20 Minutes](https://foodlets.com/2016/04/07/taco-soup-a-fresh-take-on-a-family-favorite-done-in-20-minutes/) - Here comes another fast dinner idea! In just 20 minutes you'll have a fresh spin on the one dinner nearly every family loves (no, we're not talking about you, pizza, so please calm down): This is taco soup. Taco soup has all the yummy flavors of tacos served in a refreshing new way AND there are
- [Look what happens when you change 1 thing About a Barefoot Contessa recipe: Bird's Nest Macaroons!](https://foodlets.com/2016/03/12/simple-birds-nests-for-spring-coconut-macaroons-with-chocolate-eggs/) - Want an adorable dessert for your Easter table? How about one that's actually a cinch to make--and the kids can even help? These coconut macaroons are adapted from one of my favorite Barefoot Contessa recipes, as part of our Barefoot for Babies series where we update the amazing Ina Garten's ideas (along with a few
- [Sheet Pan Honey-Mustard Chicken with Potatoes and Broccoli](https://foodlets.com/2016/01/13/sheet-pan-honey-mustard-chicken-with-potatoes-and-broccoli/) - There's a honey-mustard chicken dish that everyone in my family loves. And when I say family, I don't just mean my kids. I'm talking cousins. In-laws. Friends of cousins. That sweet and tangy sauce slathered over juicy chicken thighs is hard to beat. Except when you cook the whole thing over potatoes and add a side
- [Sausage, Sweet Potatoes & Apples: A Sheet Pan Dinner Your Kids Will Love](https://foodlets.com/2016/01/08/sausage-sweet-potatoes-apples-a-sheet-pan-dinner-your-kids-will-love/) - I've been trying to write this post for 2 years. Roasted sausage, sweet potatoes and apples on a sheet pan is an easy, delicious meal that everyone loves every time. That's the problem. It's one of my Hail Mary meals when I need dinner done fast--throwing whatever veggies I can find on a sheet pan, along with
- [Sausage & Spinach Over Rice: A 15-Minute Dinner Kids Love](https://foodlets.com/2015/12/03/sausage-spinach-over-rice-a-15-minute-dinner-kids-love/) - You just can't beat sausage for quick, delicious flavor. The stuff comes brimming with flavor, straight from the store. You also can't beat frozen spinach for knock-your-socks off nutrition in a handy little bag. Today we're combining both for an amazing dinner, an easy dinner, a 4-Thumbs Up dinner done in minutes. Yep, a 15-minute dinner kids
- [How to Make Marcella Hazan's Bolognese in 1 Hour](https://foodlets.com/2015/12/17/how-to-make-marcella-hazans-bolognese-in-1-hour/) - Have you ever made Marcella Hazan's bolognese sauce? It's amazing. But it takes almost 4 hours. If you have one, two, four or nine small kids at your house like I do, this just won't work. So as part of my quest to introduce our kids to delicious food made from fresh ingredients, with tons of
- [20-Minute Pork Tenderloin with Balsamic Vinegar and So Many Olives](https://foodlets.com/2015/11/20/20-minute-pork-tenderloin-with-balsamic-vinegar-and-so-many-olives/) - Slam dunk! All four kids (and one husband) LOVED this 20-minute pork tenderloin with balsamic vinegar and olives. That's right, every single one of our four the kids gave it a Thumbs Up and one review: "The olives are the best part." - Phoebe (6) Three of our kids were born in Italy, where we ate
- [Candy Bar Blondies](https://foodlets.com/2015/11/02/candy-bar-blondies/) - Got leftover candy? These Candy Bar Blondies are my favorite way to use Halloween Candy (and depending on how you celebrate, they're also awesome for the day after Christmas and Valentine's Day too.) We went trick-or-treating for the first time this year and there's basically candy oozing out of our house right now. That's because we've
- [Roasted Squash Stuffed with Sausage & Apples](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/19/roasted-squash-stuffed-with-sausage-apples/) - Have you seen it? The how-to video on Facebook showing roasted squash stuffed with sausage and apples? (And are you following Foodlets on Facebook?) That's where the inspiration for this delicious dinner came from. We gave it the Foodlets treatment: made it simpler, healthier and more kid-friendly. Here's how it turned out. Foodlets Rating: Phoebe (6):
- [Frozen Yogurt-Banana "Boo!" Pops, a Healthy Halloween Treat Kids Can Make](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/08/frozen-yogurt-banana-boo-pops-a-healthy-halloween-treat-kids-can-make/) - The only thing I love more than an easy Halloween treat is a healthy Halloween treat! Bonus points for one the kids can make themselves. And with both of these in spades, these Frozen Yogurt-Banana Boo! Pops are the cutest way to celebrate Halloween so far. Here's how you do it: Grab a couple containers
- [Cheesy Bagels with Sliced Tomatoes](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/31/cheesy-bagels-with-sliced-tomatoes/) - When my husband walked into the kitchen he was still buttoning up his dress shirt. Glancing over at the kids diving into these bagels he asked, "Wow, are you guys having pizza for breakfast?" Kind of! These cheesy bagels with tomatoes are the easiest "cooked" breakfast I've ever made, requiring no more work than toast. The whole
- [Ginger Peanut Noodles with Bell Peppers](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/23/ginger-peanut-noodles-with-bell-peppers/) - These cold noodles are a summer staple. Because they are awesome. At least some of our kids think so. Use any shape of pasta your kids like and don't worry about the flavor of whole-wheat pasta taking over because in this salad, that nutty whole-wheat taste holds up perfectly. Even better than regular pasta. These noodles are a simpler
- [Slow Cooker Cheesy Rice with Beef & Beans: A One-Pot Tex-Mex Meal](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/10/slow-cooker-tex-mex-beef-peppers-rice/) - WE'RE ON A BIT OF A ROLL with meals like this slow cooker rice, beef, beans and peppers. There's been quinoa enchilada casserole, slow cooker shredded chicken Tex-Mex, and one-pot Mexican casserole--each one a total success with the munchins. I mean, I don't want to jinx it or anything. Because if there's a roll, I want
- [Birds' Nests: Baked Pasta Cups with Spaghetti & Spinach](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/20/birds-nests-baked-pasta-cups-with-spaghetti-spinach/) - Leftover pasta becomes an easy lunch for kids, one with a little imagination that makes for cute lunch discussions. It also includes spinach. Because you know my policy on making things Florentine: Do it as often as possible. We'd had spaghetti for dinner the night before. I threw in an extra handful of whole-wheat pasta, then stored
- [Cod with Lemon Orzo & Peas: A 15-Minute, One-Pot Dinner](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/16/cod-with-lemon-orzo-peas-a-15-minute-one-pot-dinner/) - Two people in my house love fish. Two people in my house think they don't like fish, then try it. Then decide they love fish. They are preschoolers and do this every time. One person may never love fish. Hint: He shaves. When it comes to seafood, my husband is in the same camp as Jim
- [Easy Pita Pizzas with Cheese & Spinach](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/22/easy-pita-pizzas-with-cheese-spinach/) - There's nothing like an easy lunch for the kids. Unless it's a healthy lunch. And this one's both. Bonus, even though these easy pita pizzas with cheese & spinach are warm and gooey, the whole thing is done in 5 minutes flat. Our kids don't always like a "cooked lunch". I'm guessing because they often have to
- [Recipe: 4-Ingredient Chocolate Buttercream Frosting (on a John Deere Tractor Cake)](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/05/recipe-4-ingredient-chocolate-buttercream-frosting-on-a-john-deere-tractor-cake/) - This is the creamiest, richest, most melt-in-your-mouth chocolate buttercream frosting you may ever have. And guess what, there's no white sugar involved. Only honey. In fact there are only 4 ingredients. If you don't count the tractors. All you need for this simple chocolate buttercream frosting is: vanilla cocoa powder honey butter For this particular birthday
- [Spinach & Pineapple Popsicles, Really!](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/02/spinach-pineapple-popsicles-really/) - Looking for simple, kid-friendly spinach recipes? Spinach is one of the most nutritious foods you can eat, which makes it a habit I want our kids to grow up with. Our garden must have got the memo because it's gone crazy with spinach this year.So far I've made Sauteed Spinach with Garlic, Green Eggs &
- [Low-Sugar Hummingbird Cake](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/03/low-sugar-hummingbird-cake/) - It's already been a year! We celebrated Violet Agnes' first birthday in exactly the way you'd expect. With balloons, grandma visiting from the West coast and of course, a low-sugar birthday cake. This one is our version of a "hummingbird cake", which Wikipedia calls "a banana pineapple spice cake common in the Southern United States". My mom
- [blueberry smoothies with a superfood surprise](https://foodlets.com/2015/05/21/blueberry-smoothies-with-a-superfood-surprise/) - Frozen blueberries are an ingredient I make sure to never run out of. Honestly, there is usually a pile of bags taking up most of the space in my freezer. This is because in my weekly grocery shopping blitz, the one where I spend 20 minutes trying to throw everything I need into the cart before
- [overnight chia seed pudding with berries](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/20/overnight-chia-seed-pudding-with-berries/) - CHIA SEED PUDDING IS JUST ABOUT THE PERFECT MAKE-AHEAD BREAKFAST, particularly for sunny weather. But I didn't always know this. The first time I made chia seed pudding, the whole concept was so foreign to me that I actually thought you HAD to use coconut milk. As though it wouldn't work with other liquid. Like regular milk. Since then
- [One-Pot Mexican Quinoa Casserole (Plus a Fancy Serving Suggestion for Kids)](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/27/one-pot-mexican-casserole/) - THERE ARE TIMES WHEN I NEED A LITTLE HELP getting the kids to try something new. Part of my goal here is to create a great relationship between our kids and the food we eat. Part of that is nutrition, cooking fresh and healthy meals. Part of that is fun. Enter, egg cups. They're just
- [Saucy Meatball Sliders from "Real Baby Food"](https://foodlets.com/2015/05/12/saucy-meatball-sliders/) - I love mini food for kids. It's easy for them to handle and the portion sizes are perfect. But there's something I like even more than mini food, versatile food. Meatballs can be served straight-up, in pasta or on small buns as sliders. Like these! Whole wheat dinner rolls make the excellent "buns" and bonus, you
- [one-pot homemade mac & cheese](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/15/one-pot-homemade-mac-cheese/) - I THOUGHT I NAILED IT with our 15-minute homemade mac & cheese. Then I heard something mind-blowing. You can make one-pot pasta. With almost anything. Now I just walk around saying, "Wait, what?!? WHY haven't we been doing this all along? Why have I been washing all these pans? Is this some sort of joint conspiracy
- [Easy Veggie Calzones](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/09/easy-veggie-calzones/) - MY KIDS WERE BORN IN ITALY so they know their way around a pizza. But calzones were new to them. I loved these veggie calzones for their individual portions and portability. Plus they're basically a pocket to fill with vegetables. Lots of kids have trouble eating veggies at dinner, partially because that's the only time of
- [bell pepper sailboats](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/03/bell-pepper-sailboats/) - WHEN IT COMES TO CUTE FOOD SOMETIMES PARENTS GRUMBLE, "But then they'll ask for something special every day!" I imagine my brood like little emperors reclining on fluffy pillows with pipes perched in the corners of their jam-smeared mouths. In come the demands: "Bring me my grape caterpillars!" "You call that a spider sandwich?" "WHEEEERE is my
- [Sautéed Cabbage with Sausage, Apples & Onions](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/08/sauteed-cabbage-sausage-with-apples-onions/) - "I JUST DON'T LIKE IT" they all said. Before any of them had tried a single bite. Even I was worried. Would four kids under the age of six like sautéed cabbage and sausage with apples and, gasp, onions? But I couldn't help myself. A dinner like this is so nutritious, so colorful and it's even
- [strawberry chia seed pudding pops](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/31/strawberry-chia-seed-pudding-pops/) - NOT EVERY KID IS A CHIA SEED PUDDING LOVER. I know. I have four small kids now and they're all doing this thing where they're developing their OWN tastes. It reminds me of this great post from Facebook, "I want my children to be independent headstrong people. Just not while I'm raising them." But when a mother's
- [apple & grape turtles](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/30/apple-grape-turtles/) - PERFECT FOR AN AT-HOME SNACK or even an "UN-BAKE SALE" (you know, a more nutritious option for fundraising than cakes and cookies), we've been dying to make these turtles for a while now. Here's the review: They're pretty awesome. They took about 1 minute each. The kids squealed. Difficulty level (1-5): 2 the teeny tiny eyes
- [banana oat cups with peanut butter and jam](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/17/banana-oat-cups-with-peanut-butter-and-jam/) - WANT A MAKE-AHEAD BREAKFAST packed with nutrition? These super simple banana oat cups come together using just a few ingredients--and none of them is sugar. They're sweetened with pure honey instead of sugar, which is a habit we've been working on for a while. Plus these are full of chia seeds, a super power brain food
- [Lemon Yogurt Cakes with Blueberries](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/23/lemon-yogurt-cakes-with-blueberries/) - THERE'S A SECRET TO MAKING A CAKE MOIST. Add yogurt. This time, it was vanilla and the result was delicious. I learned about yogurt cake when we lived in Italy. Estelle was about a month old when we took a weekend trip to Umbria and did all sorts of things I can't imagine doing now. Hikes (which
- [Enchilada Casserole with Quinoa & Black Beans](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/05/make-ahead-quinoa-black-bean-enchilada-casserole/) - THIS WEEK I PREPPED 5 KID-FRIENDLY DINNERS IN 1 HOUR. It's the first time I've tackled something so organized. What I learned from the whole crazy process is a whole other post, but this recipe for a meatless make-ahead dinner was one of them and it's an unexpected keeper. Filed under It's Always Gotta Be Something,
- [Mini Broccoli & Cheese Patties ("Broccoli Cookies")](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/13/mini-broccoli-cheese-patties/) - PSSST. THESE ARE NOT COOKIES. But my kindergartener insists these broccoli & cheese patties are. Because of the shape. Obviously I did nothing to deter the automatic adoration that came with the name. I just got out the Ranch dressing and continued to mind my own business. Yes, I totally believe in Ranch dressing as a
- [No-Bake Chocolate, Fruit & Nut Bars](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/28/no-bake-chocolate-fruit-nut-bars/) - WE'VE MADE A LOT OF THINGS LIKE THESE. Homemade Lara Bars, DIY Kind Bars, Oat & Chocolate Balls and more...but these are the easiest. And the least expensive. They're also the lowest in sugar, without any sweetener at all. One more thing. They're the yummiest too. The formula for these healthy no-bake bars is simple: 2 cups
- [Thumbs Up "All the Way to Heaven" Fish Stew](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/17/thumbs-up-all-the-way-to-heaven-fish-stew/) - I'M JUST AS SURPRISED AS YOU ARE. When I mentioned fish stew to my husband that afternoon, it was with this instruction, "So you might want to go to the store and get yourself some burritos or something." He's not a fish person. That much I knew. Then, bracing myself for a round of complaints, I
- [Make-Ahead Sweet Potato "Cottage Pie" with Ground Beef (and Why It Isn't Shepherd's Pie)](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/11/sweet-potato-ground-beef-cottage-pie-and-why-it-isnt-shepherds-pie/) - WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN shepherd's pie and cottage pie? Lamb. This is what I just learned from Food 52. Shepherd's pie is traditionally made with lamb, which makes sense when you think of a shepherd's job. Cottage pie, however, is made with ground beef. That's what we used here when we made our own even simpler version.
- [Toasted Turkey, Salami & Cheese Sandwiches: Homemade Mini-Grinders](https://foodlets.com/2015/01/26/toasted-turkey-salami-cheese-sandwiches-homemade-mini-grinders/) - THERE WERE TWO STOPLIGHTS in the town where I grew up. And in between them was Rome Pizza. I told you about how much I loved their Hawaiian pizza when I was a kid but they also made something so mouthwatering I still remember it, all these years later. Grinders. But here's the thing: I only
- [chocolate-covered mini pretzel sticks with sprinkles](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/05/chocolate-covered-pretzel-sticks-with-sprinkles/) - ON A JUNK SCALE, THESE chocolate-covered mini pretzel sticks are surprisingly low. That's because of their size. When it comes to dessert--and there's no mistaking these chocolate bombs for "snacks"--it's all about portion size. To be clear, I don't think babies or toddlers need a lot of sugar, so I always go for low sugar
- [Homemade "LaraBars"](https://foodlets.com/2015/01/08/no-sugar-coconut-fudge-bars-with-a-secret-ingredient/) - THESE HOMEMADE LARABARS couldn't have come sooner. Eating less sugar is one of our family food goals this year. And while we're usually pretty good at watching sweets I knew things might go off the rails over the holidays when three year old Estelle only wanted one thing for Christmas: a chocolate bear. Since our oldest is just five,
- [Slow Cooker Apple Butter (No Sugar Added)](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/16/slow-cooker-apple-butter-no-sugar-added/) - HOMEMADE APPLE BUTTER IS one of those things Paul and I remember loving as kids. Both of our moms made it. In fact, apple butter has been shipped to our kids by two different grandmothers to two different countries, only to be devoured in one week flat. That's because it's delicious. But with four small kids, I
- [simple sweet potato walnut muffins](https://foodlets.com/2014/10/25/shredded-sweet-potato-muffins/) - When it comes to sweet potato recipes for kids, these muffins are elbowing their way to the top for two reasons: You don't have to bake the sweet potatoes ahead of time, and they're full of protein-rich nuts. Easy and nutritious? Two of my favorite things. Throw in a specially shaped pan and how can
- [Fried Cabbage with Crumbled Bacon, a Make at Nap Time Dinner](https://foodlets.com/2014/11/19/fried-cabbage-with-crumbled-bacon/) - "THUMBS UP!" they all said. "To the bacon." I made this dish for dinner last night and while all the kids (ages 2, 3 and 5) dutifully ate some cabbage, those forks seemed suspiciously bent on finding the bacon rather than full bites. And before you say, "duh!", I say...give cabbage a try. Because it's delicious. Fried
- [2 Dinners in 1: Grilled Chicken Becomes Creamy Lemon Pasta and Peanut Ginger Stir-Fry](https://foodlets.com/2014/09/18/2-dinners-in-1-grilled-chicken-creamy-lemon-pasta-and-peanut-ginger-stir-fry/) - MAKING DINNER EVERY NIGHT ISN'T EASY. This, we know. One of my favorite new techniques for getting food on the table is actually cooking less. Yep. By cooking one base I can make at least two meals. We've done it with ground beef, rice and tomatoes in Stuffed Red Peppers, which later became the base
- [Grilled Chicken, Peanut Ginger Stir-Fry](https://foodlets.com/2014/09/24/2-dinners-in-1-grilled-chicken-peanut-ginger-stir-fry/) - GOT LEFTOVER CHICKEN? Looking for ways to make cooking dinner easier (an endless pursuit around here)? We grilled up half a batch of chicken earlier in the week and saved this part for another dinner tonight as part of our 2-in-1 Dinners series. We're cooking once, eating twice. I always eat leftovers for lunch but otherwise my
- [even easier maple roasted acorn squash](https://foodlets.com/2014/10/20/even-easier-maple-roasted-acorn-squash/) - I ONCE POSTED ABOUT ROASTED ACORN SQUASH and how my four-year-old declared it "the best in the whole wide world." Awesome yes, but at the time the other two rascals wouldn't even try it. Well I have good news. Not only do all of them devour squash now but they say things like this. "I don't
- [15-Minute Homemade Macaroni & Cheese](https://foodlets.com/2014/08/26/15-minute-homemade-macaroni-cheese/) - OBVIOUS CONFESSION COMING... I'M TOTALLY OVERWHELMED. Have I mentioned that before? It turns out that managing four kids under the age of six is hard, especially when you don't get to sleep at night. I know you know that. The silly thing is, I didn't know that. Or, I guess somehow I thought it wouldn't be.
- [applesauce zucchini muffins](https://foodlets.com/2014/08/29/applesauce-zucchini-muffins/) - WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU 12 CUPS OF SHREDDED ZUCCHINI, FRESH FROM THE GARDEN, YOU... If you're a crazy person like me, you hit the kitchen and make zucchini muffins. Lots of muffins. Now these are not our first healthy zucchini muffins. (So far we've done zucchini spice muffins and a zucchini chocolate cake.) But they're some of
- [easy pasta with zucchini, tomatoes & fresh mozzarella cheese](https://foodlets.com/2014/08/22/easy-pasta-with-zucchini-basil-fresh-mozzarella-cheese/) - THERE ARE TIMES WHEN I NEED TO MAKE DINNER FAST. Before the Clifford video runs out. Before 2-month old Violet starts wailing for her own dinner. Before I turn from Pretty Nice Mommy into Awfully Frazzled Mommy. That's where a quick pasta dish full of fresh vegetables like this comes in handy. There's also the
- [peaches & creamsicles](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/23/peaches-cream-ice-pops/) - REMEMBER HOW I HAVE MORE PEACHES THAN our kids have partially dressed baby dolls thrown all over the house? We've done a health(ier) peach crisp, no sugar peach roll-ups, and a whole-wheat pancake with wedges of juicy peaches lining the top. Then we got serious. Into our trusty blender went fresh peaches, half & half plus
- [zucchini spice mini muffins](https://foodlets.com/2014/08/11/zucchini-spice-mini-muffins/) - THERE IS A CERTAIN ZUCCHINI PATCH in my yard that is going totally crazy. Yours too? As a first-time gardener I am constantly amazed that more and more zucchini just keep appearing day after day, like magic. But now, after eating sauteed zucchini for dinner more times than my family would like, and baking five or
- [1 dinner 3 ways: stuffed peppers with beef, tomatoes & rice](https://foodlets.com/2014/08/19/stuffed-peppers-with-beef-tomatoes-rice-one-dinner-three-ways/) - LAST NIGHT'S DINNER WAS A DISASTER. Sometimes I use a lot of smart strategies for making dinner quickly and easily, but not last night. There I was at 5:30pm, stirring a pot on the stove to make a vaguely Mexican dish I saw somewhere online. You know, the kind that's not too spicy for the kids but still
- [peaches & cream fruit leather](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/15/peaches-cream-fruit-leather/) - IT ALL STARTED WHEN I ACCIDENTALLY BOUGHT 1 MILLION PEACHES. Or something close to it. Paul's family was visiting from Florida over the 4th of July weekend. There were many conversations about who was getting peaches between his mom, his sister and me and here's the shocker, I mixed up the info. One trip to the
- [lettuce wraps with steak & carrots](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/18/lettuce-wraps-with-steak-carrots/) - THERE ARE TIMES WHEN I JUST WANT TO TRY SOMETHING NEW. Despite how the kids might react. When I made lettuce wraps with steak and carrots, I knew there would be resistance from the knee-high critics but sometimes, every once in a while, I don't care. If we agree that a win is when everyone tries a bit,
- [shrimp, feta & corn pizza](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/14/shrimp-feta-corn-pizza/) - I KNOW, I KNOW. What's wrong with pepperoni? Not single a thing. We just happen to have a 5-year-old major shrimp lover at our house, so when I saw a similar idea in a magazine recently, I gave it a shot. As usual, the adults liked it more than the kids, except for the one, but
- [sauteed swiss chard with garlic & lemon](https://foodlets.com/2014/07/02/garlicky-sauteed-swiss-chard-with-lemon/) - I KNOW. YOU THINK YOU DON'T LIKE THIS. And you're probably SURE the kids don't. But they just might! Ours do, and I'm as amazed as you are. This Swiss chard recipe is based on one of our favorite side dishes from Italy, bitter greens sauteed in olive oil. The kids love it. Plus there's
- [melon & mint ice pops](https://foodlets.com/2014/06/27/melon-and-mint-ice-pops/) - IF YOU HAVE A TEETHING TODDLER, you'll know why I made frozen melon ice pops last week instead of just serving the little rascals a few wedges of cantaloupe. These cool treats certainly aren't limited to those walking around with three fingers stuffed in their little mouths though. Our preschoolers were cheering when they saw these pops come
- [homemade blackberry creamsicle ice pops](https://foodlets.com/2014/06/17/homemade-blackberry-creamsicle-ice-pops/) - NOPE. There's no sugar in these babies. Just milk, yogurt, a dash of maple syrup and fresh blackberries--though you could use any fruit you (and more importantly, the kids) like. With summertime in full swing around here (read: 90 degree days) homemade ice pops hit the spot. That's good news because thanks to help from
- [15-minute cheesy pasta with chicken & spinach](https://foodlets.com/2014/06/20/15-minute-spinach-chicken-pasta/) - THIS PASTA DISH IS A 3-BOWLER. At least it was for Phoebe, our 5-year-old. Okay, okay. I admit it. I also found myself eating at least another helping, standing next to the sink while I pretended to "clean the kitchen" after dinner. It's just that kind of pasta dish. And there's even better news: the recipe is
- [low-sugar muffins with berries & ricotta cheese, a Food 52 Makeover](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/30/low-sugar-muffins-with-berries-ricotta-cheese-a-food-52-makeover/) - MOTHER'S DAY IS A TRICKY ONE. At least for me. I know the customary "gift" is something along the lines of breakfast in bed, but the only time I've eaten breakfast on a tray since becoming a mom has been inside a hospital, right after giving birth. Otherwise it's off to the races starting around dawn ever since.
- [honey-sweetened banana muffins, a recipe from "The Family Cooks"](https://foodlets.com/2014/05/15/banana-muffins-a-recipe-from-the-family-cooks/) - A muffin is a tiny cake! And sometimes not so tiny. Cake for breakfast? No wonder kids like muffins! Pssst, parents! Although these are treats, they use whole-grain flour, fruit, and unrefined sugar. And cinnamon is a trickster spice that makes sweets taste sweeter. Reprinted from “The Family Cooks” by Laurie David. Copyright (c)
- [fresh, fruity summer porridge, a recipe from "The Family Cooks"](https://foodlets.com/2014/05/15/fresh-fruity-summer-porridge-a-recipe-from-the-family-cooks/) - Summer porridge? It may sound like an oxymoron, but this hearty mix of raw oats, yogurt, and fresh fruit is cool and tangy. Spoon it into pretty glasses or mason jars, pop them into the fridge, and let chill overnight so the oats soften and all the flavors get to know each other. The next
- [coconut pineapple mini-muffins, a Serious Eats recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/14/coconut-pineapple-mini-muffins-a-serious-eats-recipe-makeover/) - WE'VE BEEN MAKING A LOT OF LUNCHES around here. Foodlets Friday Lunch is a teeny, tiny pilot program that we started this spring. Every Friday I make lunch for the kids at Phoebe's preschool and parents who are keen to buy one simply cover the costs. It's not catering, not yet, but I hope it
- [very green broccoli mac & cheese](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/28/very-green-broccoli-mac-cheese/) - YES I PUT BROCCOLI (AND SPINACH) IN THE MAC & CHEESE BUT HEAR ME OUT. When Estelle turned three she actually asked for this dish to be served for her birthday lunch with friends. Despite a pretty serious invasion of vegetables, this stuff is very tasty. Downright company-worthy. Especially when you're two going on three.
- [very small shepherd's pies (a step-by-step recipe)](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/02/very-small-shepherds-pies-a-step-by-step-recipe/) - WE'VE MADE THESE MINI SHEPHERD'S PIES TWICE NOW, once at a kiddie cooking school here in North Carolina, and once at home, both for St. Patrick's Day. This version is our own recipe, which is really just layering all the flavors you'd expect--but simplified. We cheated a bit with store-bought biscuit dough, which really puffs
- [baked pasta with spaghetti squash](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/04/baked-pasta-with-spaghetti-squash/) - BAKED ZITI. I USED TO BABYSIT TWINS IN NEW YORK who ate two things for dinner: baked ziti and chicken nuggets, end of list. So I know kids love the stuff. The only thing is, plain pasta not that great for you. So I tried something. We combined spaghetti squash with whole wheat penne pasta, then
- [kid-friendly mini reuben sandwiches (a step-by-step recipe)](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/25/kid-friendly-mini-reuben-sandwiches-a-step-by-step-recipe/) - IT'S NOT THE MOST IMPORTANT HOLIDAY, BUT ST. PATRICK'S DAY can be really fun. Especially if you're four, three or even one--and there's special food on the menu. Bonus, these mini reuben sandwiches aren't limited to leprechaun season so you can make them, and kids will love them, any time. The ingredients might surprise you, especially the sauerkraut,
- [2-Ingredient Banana Oat Bites (Neither One Is Sugar)](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/09/2-ingredient-banana-cookies-and-neither-one-is-sugar/) - THIS WAS OPRAH'S IDEA, these super simple snacks. In a recent issue of O magazine, the one I read cover to cover with so much longing for the actual Oprah show that I practically ate every page--Oprah! Where are you? Now that I am finally, for the first time in my life, actually at home
- [roasted lemon chicken with vegetables, the perfect make-at-nap-time dinner](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/24/roasted-lemon-chicken-with-vegetables-the-perfect-make-at-nap-time-dinner/) - RIGHT AROUND 5PM THINGS GET ROUGH at my house, maybe even 4. There's too much whining and not nearly enough wine. That's why I love to make dinner earlier in the day and let it just hang out -- or in this case, roast away -- until we're ready. When the cranky hour arrives I
- [Very Versatile Whole Wheat Tarts with Dried Apricot (or Jam or Nutella or...) Filling](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/04/whole-wheat-dried-apricot-tarts-or-jam-tarts-or-prune-tarts-or/) - WHEN GRANDMA COMES TO TOWN, our kitchen goes into overdrive. Paul's mom and dad were here for a visit over Thanksgiving and made one of Paul's childhood favorites, apricot tarts. It's an old recipe, the original could have, maybe come from a newspaper but this version has definitely been passed around church groups, through family
- [tomato, basil & spinach soup with cheese tortellini (and bat croutons)](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/17/tomato-basil-spinach-soup-with-cheese-tortellini-and-bat-croutons/) - Dear Ina Garten, you know I love you and your amazing recipes, but I can no longer spend 45 minutes roasting tomatoes BEFORE the soup making process begins. That is because there are three small crazy people living in my house now. I can however, make a simpler (and healthier) version of your wonderful Roasted Tomato
- [easy penne pasta with cauliflower, sausage & parmesan cheese](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/24/easy-penne-pasta-with-cauliflower-sausage-parmesan-cheese/) - IT'S NOT ALWAYS EASY TO GET KIDS EATING veggies. Especially those with a funny smell when you cook 'em. That's right cauliflower, we're talking about you. The good news is, we've discovered three ways to make cauliflower an easy sell at dinner. Roasted cauliflower, baked into macaroni and cheese, and this way right here. I
- [Honey-Sweetened Blueberry Muffins](https://foodlets.com/2013/08/16/no-sugar-blueberry-muffins-sweetened-with-honey/) - JUST IN TIME FOR BLUEBERRY MUFFINS! I love summer food. All those berries, sweet peaches and juicy cherries are so easy to serve as snacks (minus the juicy cleanup) but there's an even better side effect: When I see my three rascals lined up on the counter stools, eating all that fresh goodness I feel
- [10-minute no bake chocolate, fruit & nut balls](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/14/no-bake-chocolate-fruit-nut-balls/) - THESE HEALTHY SNACKS TOOK 10 MINUTES to make, even with my three "helpers" on hand. That's not my favorite thing about these no bake balls though. With 4-5 ingredients and instructions like "roll", even two-year-old Estelle could easily get in on the action. But, nope. That's not the best part either. I love this new
- [Endive kiwi salad, a recipe inspired by "French Kids Eat Everything"](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/10/endive-kiwi-salad-a-recipe-from-french-kids-eat-everything/) - LIKE THE STATUE OF LIBERTY, we can thank the French for this one. Karen Le Billon, inspiring writer and author of my new fantasy lifestyle manual favorite book "French Kids Eat Everything", introduced this endive kiwi salad to our household. And hold on to your hats because the kids ate it. Salad. One toddler, one preschooler, eating
- [homemade ham & pineapple pizza](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/05/ham-and-pineapple-pizza/) - NO ONE LOVES A SPIN-OFF MORE THAN ME. I'm a huge fan of Hawaiian pizza so it wasn't even a question that we'd turn our pork & pineapple skewers into kid-friendly ham & pineapple pizza sooner or later. Just don't tell the Italians... The flavor is so nice, we might try this again with the healthy deep
- [chicken & vegetable stir-fry with noodles](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/19/chicken-vegetable-stir-fry-with-noodles/) - WHEN I SAW PHOEBE CLOSE HER EYES and suck up each noodle in this simple stir-fry one by one, I knew we had a hit. Even better, she actually ate ALL the vegetables. Including sworn enemies such as zucchini and carrots. So, yes, we'll be making this again. It's just a variation of toddler-friendly Asian noodles
- [easy ham & cheese quiche](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/17/baked-eggs-with-ham-cheese/) - THIS WAS A SURPRISE TO ME. Toddlers love eggs. Scrambled eggs. Green eggs and ham. Even baked eggs with a crispy crust and tons of tasty fillings. Served hot or room temperature, it's also as easy to eat like a pizza as it is with a knife and fork. And that's just the beginning. Our
- [Healthy Pumpkin Spice Mini Muffins](https://foodlets.com/2011/11/24/pumpkin-spice-mini-muffins-and-cake/) - Here they are! The healthy pumpkin mini muffins every kid loves. Don't get me wrong, I still love my Barefoot Contessa. But today's makeover recipe from Paula Deen looked so good -- and had so many amazing reviews (766 and counting!?) -- on Food Network.com that I couldn't really resist. They're both big ladies with
- [Finally, a Chili Recipe My Kids Will Eat](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/23/finally-a-chili-recipe-my-kids-will-eat/) - MY KIDS DON'T LIKE CHILI. EXCEPT THIS WAY. There are a couple of tricks at work here. First, make some chili. Don't put in too much cumin and skip the spicy chiles. Then swap a soup bowl for a juice glass and present those knee-high guys with this, a chili parfait. And if that doesn't
- [No-Cut Chocolate Bark with Dried Fruit & Nuts (Safe for Kids to Make!)](https://foodlets.com/2015/12/02/melted-chocolate-circles-with-nuts-fruit-a-5-minute-christmas-cookie-kids-can-make/) - As our series of Easy Cookies Kids Can Make continues, we present the easiest one yet! Inspired by a batch we saw on 100 Days of Real Food, we wanted to know if these cookies were as easy AND as delicious as they seemed. Answers: yes and OH, yes. For today's super simple cookies (which
- [Fatty acids make babies smarter](https://foodlets.com/2011/09/29/fatty-acids-make-babies-smarter/) - THIS IS NO FISH TALE. A new study came out last week making it official. Fatty acids are beneficial for babies. Tue, Sep 20, 2011 (HealthDay News via BabyCenter) -- Whether they're fed by bottle or breast, babies seem to turn out smarter when nourished with healthy fatty acids found in breast milk and some
- [flourless black bean chocolate cake. yep. We](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/13/flourless-black-bean-chocolate-cake-yep/) - I HAVE A LIST OF TOP 5 FOODS. In fact, on one of our first dates, I asked Paul about his. With a sort of deer-in-the-headlights look, he shrugged and explained that he didn't have such a list (he politely left out saying anything like "because I'm not 9"). No matter. Mine, I announced, were:
- [2-Ingredient Homemade Hot Chocolate](https://foodlets.com/2017/11/10/2-ingredient-hot-chocolate-without-a-powdered-mix/) - Did you know you could make hot chocolate with only 2 ingredients you already have--and neither one of them is a packet of mix? Milk and chocolate chips. That's all it takes to make our favorite hot chocolate without a powdered mix at all. How to make homemade hot chocolate without a mix For 4
- [tomato & cheese tart](https://foodlets.com/2013/08/21/tomato-cheese-tart/) - THIS WAS THE HARDEST RECIPE I'VE MADE in a long time. But I did it. And it was delicious, at least two parents and one preschooler thought so. Baby George and Estelle who is two, begged to differ. But here's my theory: Phoebe helped me make it and when you're a kid in the kitchen,
- [10 Easy Zucchini Recipes Your Whole Family Will Love](https://foodlets.com/2018/06/12/10-easy-zucchini-recipes-your-whole-family-will-love/) - It happens every year. Right around this time, our garden is bursting with zucchini. Like, more zucchini than I've ever seen in one place. So when things reach Peak Zucchini, I start cooking. Experimenting. Baking and sautéing. Through years of trial and error, I've got a solid set of zucchini recipes that my four kids
- [5 reasons why kids won't eat dinner (only 1 of them is about the food)](https://foodlets.com/2018/03/08/5-reasons-why-your-kids-wont-eat-dinner-only-1-of-them-is-about-the-food/) - “My kids just won’t eat!” Sound familiar? As a mom of four small rascals who range from three years to eight, who's also a family food blogger, I hear this all the time. I get emails, questions on the playground and have quiet conversations at birthday parties. Usually near the cake. With a mom who’s
- [Little Bit o'Spinach Shortbread Cookies for St. Patrick's Day](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/15/a-little-bit-green-for-st-patricks-day-better-for-you-shortbread-shamrock-cookies/) - OUR KIDS HAVE BEEN MISBEHAVING. I'm sure this never happens at your house, but this has been one of those weeks. We've had a whining, crying, tantrum-throwing, Pull-Up-removing time of it for days now. But this morning when Paul and I mentioned working toward a picnic dinner at the playground tonight, as in, we only
- [super spinach cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/01/super-spinach-cupcakes/) - THAT'S RIGHT, NOW I PUT SPINACH IN THE CUPCAKES. They're festive for St. Patrick's Day but so full of yummy vanilla goodness that the kids love them year round, and I don't think twice about rounding out lunches with one (or even two). We still use our whole wheat flour, adding a bit more staying
- [Toasted Bagel Bites](https://foodlets.com/2018/03/09/toasted-bagel-bites/) - These toasted bagel bites are the simplest way to land a major hit at lunchtime. In three minutes flat, you can whip up one of our four kids' favorite school lunches of all time. Plus, the mix-and-match options are endless. Use whole-wheat bagels, everything bagels or plain. Add peanut butter and jam, hummus, marinara sauce
- [Heart-Shaped Pizzas](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/30/heart-shaped-pizzas/) - There's something so sweet about a Valentine's Day lunch for kids, especially when it's as simple to make as our heart-shaped pizzas. What you need to make heart-shaped pizzas Pizza crust (homemade or store-bought) Pizza sauce (A little marinara sauce works perfectly! Here's my favorite homemade marinara recipe.) Mozzarella cheese Pepperoni (optional) Heart-shaped cookie cutter
- [double berry cream puffs, a step-by-step recipe for kids](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/17/strawberry-cream-puffs-a-step-by-step-recipe/) - I'M A BIT OF A SUCKER FOR VALENTINE'S DAY. The kids don't even know what it is, but now that we're back in the US, I'm diving into all the special occasions, big and small. That's why I can't wait to serve them these little strawberry cream puffs on February 14. They're pink, they're easy
- [3 Game-Changing Ways to Cook Frozen Vegetables](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/21/3-game-changing-ways-to-cook-frozen-vegetables/) - I love cooking frozen vegetables. They're always in season, already washed and trimmed, usually more affordable than fresh yet just as nutritious--in fact, sometimes even more so. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Food Composition and Analysis had one goal: To clarify whether fresh vegetables are more nutritious than frozen. The findings were good
- [How to Make "Hard Boiled" Eggs in an Instant Pot](https://foodlets.com/2018/01/05/how-to-make-hard-boiled-eggs-in-an-instant-pot/) - I love making eggs. My kids love eating eggs. I recently became the owner of nine chickens, partly so we could get more eggs. The only glitch in this egg-loving setup is...peeling hard boiled eggs. I can never, ever get those stubborn eggshells to come off without crumbling and taking half the white with them.
- [Do feminists cook?](https://foodlets.com/2017/12/07/do-feminists-cook/) - I'm one of those girls who grew up thinking I could do anything. That I could be anything. Why? Because my mom told me so. All the time. She believed it. A stay-at-home mom who took odd jobs on the side to help make ends meet, mine spent her twenties raising two small kids and
- [Candy Corn Breakfast Parfaits...Minus the Candy](https://foodlets.com/2017/10/20/candy-corn-breakfast-parfaits-minus-the-candy/) - These "candy corn" breakfast parfaits are such a hit but that's not the best thing about them. They're so easy! But that's not it either. These candy corn breakfast parfaits are made out of fruit and Greek yogurt with a hit of whipped cream on top. They're THE cutest way to start Halloween on a
- [How to Turn our Most Popular Slow Cooker Meal into a 2nd Dinner (Tortilla Soup!) Using 1 Ingredient](https://foodlets.com/2017/10/18/how-to-turn-our-most-popular-slow-cooker-meal-into-a-second-dinner-tortilla-soup/) - People always seem surprised that I cook so often but the truth is, I don't! I use shortcuts to get a fresh dinner on the table and transforming leftovers is one of my favorites. This matters because there are four small children at my house. Four rascals casually opening the front door while naughty puppies
- [The Easiest Halloween Hack Ever: Spooky Smoothies](https://foodlets.com/2017/10/16/the-easiest-halloween-hack-ever-spooky-smoothies/) - This is hands-down, the easiest Halloween "recipe" for kids you'll ever see. Step 1: Make one of your favorite smoothies. Peach, blueberry or my favorite spinach and pineapple. Step 2: Rummage in your medicine cabinet for one of those syringes for giving kids medicine. Fill syringe with half & half, then make a circle near
- [3 Simple Halloween Recipes Preschoolers Can Make](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/16/3-classic-halloween-recipes-preschoolers-can-make/) - You know how I feel about cute food, right? If there's a culinary -- or worse, architecture -- degree involved, I'll pass. Toiling away in the kitchen is not my dream. But I want our kids to learn to love food, to be totally up for trying new things and generally aware of what they're
- [Jack-o-Lantern Fruit Cups](https://foodlets.com/2017/10/07/jack-o-lantern-fruit-cups/) - You know those cute Halloween breakfast ideas you see on Pinterest? The ones that seem SO easy, then turn out to be as hard as convincing your three-year-old that it'll be faster if you just buckle her carseat? This is not one of them. After testing out the idea, I have good news. These adorable
- [The 12 Best Muffin Recipes I’ve Ever Made](https://foodlets.com/2016/02/15/healthy-muffin-recipes-for-kids/) - Muffins are so sneaky. Most of them are closer to cupcakes but that doesn't stop those sweet imposters from parading right through most people's mental list of Healthy Breakfast Ideas. I was in a cafeteria the other day where each item had a little plaque next to it, listing all the nutritional information. Morning Glory muffins! I thought
- [Fruity Lemonade Popsicles](https://foodlets.com/2017/06/13/fruity-lemonade-popsicles/) - You know how kids are experts at devouring fresh fruit in seconds flat? I've found a way to make a few slices of fruit go farther and last a little longer: Freeze the whole darn thing. Enter, fruity lemonade popsicles.Just fill a popsicle mold with fruit, then pour on enough lemonade to get ALMOST to
- [4 Ways to Make an Instant Meal Out of 1 Baguette](https://foodlets.com/2017/05/10/4-delicious-ways-to-make-an-instant-meal-out-of-a-baguette/) - This may be one of my favorite school lunch ideas of all. Slice a baguette, then pile on the toppings to make instant open faced sandwiches the whole crowd loves. Not bad for about 2 minutes' work. BROILED BAGUETTE MINI SANDWICHES Ham & Baby Swiss with Sliced Pickles Instructions: Fold a piece of ham (I
- [Your kids' new favorite avocado toast is here: Egg + avocado on toast](https://foodlets.com/2017/04/05/your-kids-new-favorite-avocado-toast-is-here-egg-avocado-on-toast/) - When it comes to healthy breakfast ideas for kids, it's hard to do better than avocado toast. Unless you put a hardboiled egg on top. Ta da! Our kids' new favorite protein-packed breakfast: Egg & avocado toast. The whole thing comes together in minutes. I always use Dave's Killer Bread because it's so hearty. I'm
- [Healthy chocolate pudding: no-cook chocolate pudding with banana and avocado](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/29/avocado-banana-chocolate-pudding/) - PRETTY GOOD! Not as rich as real pudding. But you don't cook it, so this dish earns points for simplicity--and healthy ingredients. Nary a grain of sugar but packed with Omega-3s and potassium (plus a shot of agave for sweetness), even the bitter unsweetened chocolate is a nutritional boost. Since my kids don't know about
- [Beef & vegetable roll-ups with balsamic glaze made a little simpler](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/28/beef-vegetable-roll-ups-with-balsamic-glaze-simplified-believe-it-or-not/) - I CAN'T LIE TO YOU. THESE DELICIOUS BEEF ROLL-UPS WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE WILL NOT BECOME ONE OF YOUR GO-TO WEEKNIGHT DINNERS. But you'll love making them once in a while. With a tangy, sweet sauce plus a built-in veggie and playful presentation, there's a lot to like here. The only trouble is the number of steps it
- [How to get kids to try new foods: 8 Things I learned from the book "The 52 New Foods Challenge: A Family Cooking Adventure for each week of the year"](https://foodlets.com/2017/02/01/how-to-get-kids-to-try-new-foods-8-things-i-learned-from-the-book-the-52-new-foods-challenge-a-family-cooking-adventure-for-each-week-of-the-year/) - Hey, are your kids good at trying new foods? Let's say you finally make that slow cooker recipe from the video you saw on Facebook. If your kids are like mine, a typical response might be any one of these: Thumbs up! One begrudging bite Small bodies slithering down their chairs like they've suddenly lost every last one
- [strawberry hearts: a healthy valentine's day snack for kids](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/03/strawberry-hearts-healthy-valentines-day-snack-for-kids/) - IT'S EASY TO IMPRESS THE RASCALS. And if you have an extra 15 seconds, you too can ta da your way to the cutest little meal with these strawberry hearts. It's already time for Florida strawberries here in North Carolina but I'm betting you can get your hands on a few California beauties just about anywhere. And
- [Why I don't obsess over "healthy" food for kids (and what I focus on instead)](https://foodlets.com/2017/01/24/why-i-dont-obsess-over-healthy-food-for-kids-and-what-i-focus-on-instead/) - It's true. I'm a food and parenting blogger with four small kids, and I'm still not focused on finding the "cleanest" ingredients, or stocking lunch boxes with this month's list of super foods for kids. Just back off, okay bone broth? Like other moms who've had it with frantically bouncing back and forth between kale and
- [Say It with Strawberries (and Cheese): A Fresh Valentine's Day Treat for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/09/say-it-with-strawberries-and-cheese-a-fresh-valentines-day-treat-for-kids/) - YOU COULD SAY IT WITH CHOCOLATE. Or smoothies. Even tiny cream puffs would be sweet. But today's treat is a little healthier, a lot heartier and a great choice to bring to school as well. We used Mini Triscuits which I learned a while ago have two ingredients: wheat and salt. (Ditto for regular Triscuits, of
- [10 absolutely adorable ideas for Valentine's Day](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/03/10-absolutely-adorable-ideas-for-valentines-day/) - SO. MUCH. CUTENESS. Not sure if I can take it! Looking for Valentine's Day inspiration of my own, I clicked through some of my favorite blogs and all I can say is, wow. These are all unique ways to say it with sweets--and I especially love those with a nod toward nutrition. Gift tag shaped
- [low sugar coconut cookies (a 101 cookbooks makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2013/01/29/low-sugar-coconut-cookies/) - WE KNEW THEY WERE GOING TO BE HEALTHY, because this cookie recipe was inspired by 101 Cookbooks. But we're all pleasantly surprised to know they're tasty too. (And when I say "we" I mean Phoebe and Estelle who keep hanging out by the little blue storage bin, longingly.) With a quarter of the sugar you'd usually
- [orange pound cake muffins, a david lebovitz recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/01/orange-pound-cake-muffins/) - THESE TASTE LIKE EXTRA delicious Twinkies. That's the first thing I have to say about this recipe. The second is, I'm sorry Mr. Lebovitz. (But I do hope you understand the method to my mini foodie madness.) Inspired by pastry chef David Lebovitz's gorgeous book, "Ready for Dessert: My Best Recipes", we've started a new
- [American Flag Fruit & Cheese Platter](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/17/patriotic-fruit-cheese-platter-made-simple-american-flag/) - We've done an American flag with fruit on skewers. It was fun and not nearly as hard you might think. But this new American flag fruit and cheese platter is SO easy, I'll do it every time I get the chance: 4th of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day. All the Days! If it looks familiar, this
- [simple pasta with tomatoes, basil & mozzarella](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/01/simple-spring-pasta-with-tomatoes-basil-mozzarella/) - AS PART OF OUR SEMI-DELUDED PLAN to have friends over this weekend, we served homemade rolls along with two pastas, including this one that I learned how to make when we lived in Italy. Our wonderful guests brought veggies and desserts including a chocolate layer caked called "Tall, Dark and Handsome". And yes, we're inviting them
- [Pork & pineapple skewers with fresh green beans](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/13/pork-pineapple-kabobs-with-fresh-green-beans/) - IF YOU'RE FROM THE WEST COAST, YOU EAT HAWAIIAN PIZZA. If you're not, you think it's weird. Happily, I fall into the former category. In the small town where I grew up in Washington state, we had one pizza place, Rome Pizza. And the only pie my family ever ordered was Canadian bacon and pineapple.
- [3-Ingredient Strawberry-Peanut Butter Wraps](https://foodlets.com/2015/05/15/3-ingredient-strawberry-peanut-butter-wraps/) - The idea for these easy strawberry-peanut butter wraps came from a new cookbook I've already grown to love,“Real Baby Food: Easy All-Natural Recipes for Your Baby & Toddler”. We've devoured had these several times and when I say "we" I mean all the kids, even baby Violet, and me. And we can't wait to have
- [The 3-Ingredient Pesto Naan Bread Pizza Our Kids Can’t Stop Asking For](https://foodlets.com/2016/02/18/3-ingredient-naan-bread-pesto-piza/) - This pesto naan bread pizza taught me two things: Kids love pesto. I'm not nearly as clever as I think. It's part of our What to Make for Dinner When You're in a Hurry After Work series that I'm calling Dinner in a Flash. This instant pesto pizza was recommended by a lawyer mom whose girls go to school
- [The Last Minute Side Dish Your Kids Will Love: Veggie Cups in Mini Bread Bowls](https://foodlets.com/2016/03/17/the-last-minute-side-dish-your-kids-will-love-veggie-cups-in-mini-bread-bowls/) - Maybe this has happened to you too. The clock said 5:45pm and I had just stumbled in the front door from a big consulting job. Much later than usual. And, cue the meltdowns. That's because after anxiously looking at the clock for the last 15 minutes of my day I finally cut off a co-worker who kept saying things like
- [Ridiculously Cute Mini Taco Cups](https://foodlets.com/2016/02/02/mini-taco-cups-with-a-bonus-built-in-whole-wheat-snack/) - These mini taco cups turned out to be a lunch our kids loved--and a built-in, whole-wheat snack too! I used leftover taco meat & beans from taco night, about a cup to make a dozen mini taco cups, which served 4 small kids. Of course the math would change with the ages of your kids, so
- [2 Minutes to Gooey & Amazing: Why You’ll Want To Make Apple-Jack Sandwiches for Dinner Tonight](https://foodlets.com/2016/02/14/apple-jack-sandwiches-an-instant-dinner-for-the-whole-family/) - A few weeks ago I asked you guys, "What do you make for dinner when you're in a hurry after work?" Here's what one smart mom said: Apple-Jack Sandwiches. A fast, easy, satisfying dinner with a deliciously new combination of flavors. (Flavors our kids already know, only not in this formation. Horizons, prepare to be broadened.) And
- [4th of july fruit skewer flag cake](https://foodlets.com/2014/06/01/4th-of-july-fruit-skewer-flag-cake/) - I CAN'T DECIDE WHAT I LIKE BEST ABOUT THIS FLAG. It's 100 percent fresh fruit. It's easy to make. It's a festive snack for the 4th of July. There could be other reasons too but because I get up twice every night now, my brain can only come up with these three. For this version you need
- [spider sandwiches](https://foodlets.com/2014/10/07/spider-sandwiches/) - IN KEEPING WITH OUR EASY HALLOWEEN FOOD IDEAS theme, today's spider sandwich is so simple and surprisingly sturdy that they make great snacks or lunches on the go. I know this because George, my two-year-old, reached up and grabbed the container ours were stored in no less than five times before we got out the
- [moroccan couscous made kid-friendly](https://foodlets.com/2014/05/08/moroccan-couscous-made-kid-friendly/) - REMEMBER WHEN YOU USED TO EAT ETHNIC FOOD? If you haven't had a zesty international flavor from somewhere other than Taco Bell since before the kids were born, this one's for you. I actually love Moroccan food but wondered how all those unfamiliar spices and unexpected ingredients would go over with my three knee-highs. So we
- [Apple Sandwich, a recipe excerpt from "100 Days of Real Food"](https://foodlets.com/2014/09/03/apple-sandwich-an-excerpt-from-100-days-of-real-food/) - {Reprinted with permission from "100 Days of Real Food" by Lisa Leake} If you’re looking for a way to make over your kid’s lunch (or your own!), here’s the answer. Sandwiches are no longer a bore if you just switch out the regular bread and use Cinnamon-Raisin Quick Bread, waffles, or even apples! Apple sandwiches
- [want kids to eat more veggies? try a 3-dip taste test](https://foodlets.com/2014/09/17/how-to-get-kids-to-eat-carrots/) - SOME KIDS LOVE EATING VEGETABLES. And, this may totally surprise you, some don't. But almost all kids love condiments. Sweet, salty, gooey? Check, check and check! For a fast vegetable dish or a nutritious snack, I set out a bunch of organic baby carrots plus three "dipping sauces". These can be anything. From hummus (homemade or from
- [how to make green grape caterpillars](https://foodlets.com/2014/10/03/how-to-make-green-grape-caterpillars/) - THESE CREEPY CRAWLY CATERPILLARS aren't just a healthy Halloween treat, they're also great for parties or lunch boxes any time of the year. I think I know three little people who are going to squeal when they see these on the table at snack time today... WHAT YOU NEED: Extra long toothpicks (I got mine
- [Mini Pot Pies: Our Kids' Favorite Way to Eat Leftovers](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/10/mini-pot-pies-the-best-way-to-use-leftovers/) - GOT LEFTOVERS? We may have four kids but they're all so small (and tend to come with their own individual sets of likes and dislikes) that we always have a wee bit of dinner left. Not a lot, not enough to make a full meal out of, but too much to toss. Enter pie dough. Store-bought
- [Cinnamon Apple Slices](https://foodlets.com/2015/01/16/cinnamon-apple-slices/)
- [Pickle Roll-Ups](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/20/pickle-roll-ups/) - FILE THIS ONE UNDER "EASY SCHOOL LUNCH IDEAS". Desperate to break out of our sandwich rut this week, I grabbed that deli ham (the one with no nitrates), folded each piece in half and rolled it around a mini dill pickle. I just repeated twice and threaded all three onto an extra long toothpick. These happened
- [easy brownie bird nests](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/02/easy-brownie-birdsnests-for-easter/) - I'M NOT USUALLY A FAN OF CULINARY ORIGAMI. Yes, I've been known to roll up a sandwich or two, and maybe even use a muffin pan to produce "castle" casseroles as a treat for the kids (read: to get them to try something new) but those things take all of an extra 35 seconds, and even
- [chicken & zucchini casserole castles](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/05/zucchini-chicken-casserole-castle-with-salad-moat/) - "THIS IS SO AWESOME!" That's what Phoebe said when she saw her casserole castle last night. Then she wouldn't eat it. Instead there was lots of trying to hug it while murmuring, "I just love it so much". So that was the down side. The good news is, the whole thing couldn't be easier to
- [it's turkey time! our new favorite nut-free cheddar & cream cheese ball](https://foodlets.com/2013/11/22/its-turkey-time-our-new-favorite-nut-free-cheddar-cream-cheese-ball/) - DID YOU KNOW MOST CHEESE BALLS INCLUDE NUTS? And all sorts of spicy ingredients? At least the recipes I found do. This was a problem because two forces aligned this week: it was our turn to take the preschool snack and my former Martha Stewart Omnimedia alum, Michelle Buffardi, has an adorable new book out
- [a little shot of spinach, the best way to start dinner!](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/16/a-little-shot-of-spinach-the-best-way-to-start-dinner/) - This is an idea straight from "French Kids Eat Everything", and I love it. In her amazing memoir about moving to France with two picky eaters then watching the European culture transform their whole family, Karen Le Billon explains that many French households have a baby food maker handy, even if they don't have a baby.
- [2 ways to cuten up breakfast in 60 seconds: hard-boiled egg molds](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/27/2-ways-to-cuten-up-breakfast-in-60-seconds-hard-boiled-egg-molds/) - I LOVE IT WHEN THINGS WORK OUT. And when you're shopping online, that's not always the case, right? Recently I went crazy took advantage of our new access to online shopping in the U.S. and tried out a dozen things I'd had an eye on in Italy (like this and this). But these little egg
- [Recipes from "French Kids Eat Everything", carrot salad and stuffed tomatoes](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/20/from-french-kids-eat-everything-carrot-salad-and-stuffed-tomatoes/) - AS THE FRENCH WOULD SAY, these were magnifique. As Phoebe would say, they were magical. My many thanks to Karen Le Billon, author of one of my favorite new books, French Kids Eat Everything. (And if you haven't read it yet, here's what I learned from Inspired by her tales of picky eaters turned foodies,
- [A "Cupcake Wars" Inspired Birthday Party](https://foodlets.com/2013/11/19/a-cupcake-wars-inspired-bake-off-birthday-party-happy-10th-birthday-rian/) - SHE DID IT AGAIN! Remember the rainbow spa birthday party? Or the sweet shop birthday party? Now Amber, who blogs at Cake Pops and Squats, has created a birthday bake off competition for her 10-year-old's big day. It was "Cupcake Wars" for 14 ten-year-olds in one kitchen, and if you're wondering how she pulled it off,
- [Want to Be a Recipe Tester?](https://foodlets.com/2015/12/01/want-to-be-a-recipe-tester/) - We're trying to find the BEST KIDS' RECIPES EVER. What are those? Here are the criteria: Made with mostly fresh ingredients Encourages variety and nutrition Simple enough to make for families with small kids BELOVED BY (ALMOST) ALL KIDS If you'd like to be part of our recipe testing group, please email me at charity.mathews@gmail.com.
- [3 amazing cheese balls for kids](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/10/3-amazing-cheese-balls-for-kids/) - COURTESY OF "GREAT BALLS OF CHEESE" by Michelle Buffardi, we bring you the most amazing generic valtrex buy online snacks your kids will see all year. Here are the recipes and how-to details for each one pictured above: Herbed Caterpillar Nacho Cat Mouse Bites
- [whole wheat penne pasta with pesto & beans](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/18/penne-with-pesto-beans/) - THIS DINNER WAS DONE IN 15 MINUTES. As if that wasn't enough of a mini miracle for this mom, it was also eaten. Happily. Heartily. And so another spin-off series begins... Get ready kids. There's more pasta on the way! And more, and more... The longest part of this dinner prep was actually boiling the
- [String Cheese Witches' Brooms, a Healthy Halloween Treat](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/18/string-cheese-witches-brooms-a-no-sugar-halloween-treat/) - TODAY'S HEALTHY HALLOWEEN FOOD POST WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY PINTEREST. You've seen them, haven't you? These adorable witches' brooms made from string cheese, pretzels and chives? On this particular day, with the pressure of supplying the preschool snack falling squarely on my shoulders, I bravely tried to recreate one of the zillion wow-I-can't-believe-other-moms-are-doing-this ideas from
- [3 Kid-Tested Toppings to Make Toast a Healthier Breakfast](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/26/3-ways-to-make-toast-a-healthier-breakfast/) - My kids love toast for breakfast. They'd eat it every day. So for the sake of variety -- both in terms of appreciating new flavors and nutritional value -- we started getting adventurous about toppings. This is only a start (and I'd love to hear about your ideas) but these 3 ways to make toast a healthier
- [Honey whole wheat cornbread](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/13/honey-whole-wheat-cornbread/) - IF YOU THINK CORNBREAD IS DRY or worse yet, greasy and heavy, this one is for you. Phoebe has eaten three pieces in the last 18 hours, one at every meal and actually closes her eyes with each bite. So, I think it's pretty good. We made cornbread as part of a meal with grilled
- [The Perfect 3-Step Waffle Bar Setup for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/13/1-2-3-waffle-bar-for-kids/) - I thought putting together a waffle bar for kids would be a kind of a pain. But it wasn't. Yes there was set up and clean up but let's face it, even sandwiches don't make themselves. For a fun lunch (and an amazing idea for a kid-friendly dinner party), I set up a waffle bar
- [Sweet Potato Oven Fries with Cinnamon: 5 Minutes and 3 Ingredients to Prep, Kids Love 'Em](https://foodlets.com/2015/10/08/sweet-potato-oven-fries-with-cinnamon/) - There's nothing better than a vegetable that takes 5 minutes and 3 ingredients to prep. Except a vegetable that all kids love. That's sweet potato oven fries with cinnamon, a simple side our kids devour every time. Sweet potato oven fries with cinnamon are part of our regular rotation. They're easy, full of nutrients and
- [pumpkin pancakes or waffles](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/14/pumpkin-pancakes-and-meet-the-featured-foodlets/) - ONE OF MY DREAMS FOR THIS WEBSITE is to create an amazing collection of family-friendly recipes and meal ideas from moms and dads everywhere. There's a special section on Foodlets devoted to this mission; you can upload your family's favorite recipes (with photo) easily right here. But sometimes I hear from you directly, which is
- [How a Cutting Board Teaches Portion Control & a Breakthrough Rule for Myself](https://foodlets.com/2015/09/10/a-snack-thats-healthy-and-promotes-manners-plus-my-own-new-snack-rule-for-myself/) - Do your kids eat too much? Do you? Those can be tough questions but part of my mission here is to teach my kids to love good food. And to enjoy it, whether they're together or alone. And not eat too much of it. That's right. Just like Michael Pollan says, "Not too much." Even if
- [Age-Appropriate Jobs for Kids in the Kitchen](https://foodlets.com/2015/09/10/age-appropriate-jobs-for-kids-in-the-kitchen/) - Cooking with kids is equal parts messy, fun and important life skill learned. We started early with these guys, and you can too! Here are my favorite jobs for small helpers: Toddlers stirring helping dump ingredients into bowls greasing pans separating (cupcake liners, tomatoes from a vine, etc.) tasting :) Preschoolers breaking eggs (really!) retrieving
- [healthy apple spice quick bread](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/06/healthy-apple-spice-quick-bread/) - I DON'T KNOW WHO ATE MORE OF THIS, ME OR BABY GEORGE (or what that says about either of us). But what I do know is that we packed this apple spice loaf with as many good-for-you ingredients as we could, and it was still so delicious the older kids were asking about it long
- [TRIED IT: Frozen Grapes, Another "Why Didn't We Do This Sooner?" Snack](https://foodlets.com/2015/08/20/frozen-grapes-another-why-didnt-we-do-this-sooner-snack/) - Welcome to a new feature on Foodlets called "Tried It". These are recipes or bits of advice that I've heard and seen elsewhere put to the test with our own four kids. I'll give you the scoop on the difficulty-to-worth-it ratio, plus whether the kids liked it and whether we'd do it again. Tried It: Frozen
- [Sliced Cucumber Sandwiches](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/22/sliced-cucumber-sandwiches/) - No bread here, just crunchy slices of cucumber. The cucumber IS the bread. Why? Because we have 457 million cucumbers growing in our garden right now. Plucking 4, 8, 12 cucumbers out of the yard every day means my fridge is overflowing with the darn things. (Are they mating in there? Raising happy little families right
- [The Best Way to Cut a Watermelon](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/21/the-best-way-to-cut-a-watermelon/) - I JUST DISCOVERED THE BEST WAY TO CUT A WATERMELON. And it's changed everything. No rind. Just watermelon. Leave it in strips or cut into chunks. Without the bulky rinds, it's also easier to store. Cutting a watermelon like this is an easy method: Cut off both ends. Slice off the rind, leaving a big juicy
- [Very Pickly Egg Salad](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/22/egg-salad-our-kids-love/) - I NEVER LIKED EGG SALAD GROWING UP. But our kids totally love it, especially this way. Inexpensive, simple and even considered "brain food", I'm happy to whip up a batch of egg salad once every couple of weeks. Our favorite ways to serve these sandwiches are simply on whole wheat bread, cut into quarters or
- [No-cook dinner: shrimp couscous with feta, tomatoes and zucchini](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/18/no-cook-dinner-shrimp-couscous-with-feta-tomatoes-and-zucchini/) - IT'S HOT, MAMA. I have two temperature-related rules when the needle hits 90: we're not going to the playground in the afternoon (especially not with Baby G in the super sweaty Bjorn) and I'm not cooking unless I have to. Enter couscous. The ultimate ingredient for a kid-friendly fast dinner. This simple dinner combines a
- [Grilled lemon chicken with buttered green beans](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/19/grilled-lemon-chicken-with-buttered-green-beans/) - THIS WAS A CHILDHOOD FAVORITE OF MINE. Sort of. The 1980s version involved a bottle of lemon juice and a skillet, and I loved it. Now I use the grill pan and a real lemon, but the idea is the same. Marinated chicken is juicy and flavorful, just as perfect for a fresh summer dinner
- [2-Ingredient Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles](https://foodlets.com/2015/07/02/2-ingredient-strawberry-lemonade-popsicles/) - MY KIDS DON'T USUALLY DRINK JUICE. It's just too sugary. If we're going to have a lot of sugar, I'd prefer a big ol' cake. Or better yet, some ice cream. Just go for it, I say. But the one exception is lemonade. Sometimes my husband makes a batch of fresh lemonade with the rascals. Sometimes
- [How to Make a Pasta Salad Turtle: The Potluck Dish of Your Kids' Dreams](https://foodlets.com/2015/05/14/pasta-salad-turtle-the-potluck-dish-of-your-kids-dreams/) - Even though it's been a while, moving back to America from Italy has meant many big changes. English. Big cars. And potlucks. So many potlucks. Church potlucks, school potlucks, people who get mail potlucks (you're coming, right?). We have another one coming up in a couple of weeks and I have to confess something: I
- [7 Fresh Fruit (& Veggie) Packed Popsicles Kids Love!](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/10/7-fresh-fruit-veggie-packed-popsicles-kids-love/) - Who said delicious homemade popsicles couldn't be full of fresh fruit and even a couple of veggies? These are our favorite fresh fruit & veggie popsicles, a fun way to get kids closer to the recommended 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Spinach & Pineapple Popsicles Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding Pops Peaches & Creamsicles Cantaloupe
- [Chocolate Fudge Pops with Bananas & Avocado](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/20/no-sugar-frozen-fudge-pops-with-banana-avocado/) - WE HAD A LITTLE PREVIEW OF SUMMER for a while, and when the sun came out, we made these. To our chocolate-avocado-banana pudding, we added honey and milk then froze the whole thing in Popsicle molds. The taste is rich and creamy and the ingredients are only good for you. FROZEN FUDGE POPS ingredients 2
- [15 Healthy Cakes & Cupcakes for 1st Birthday Parties](https://foodlets.com/2015/06/09/healthy-cakes-cupcakes-for-first-birthday-parties/) - Healthy cakes and cupcakes for 1st birthday parties were hard for me to find when my oldest daughter turned one. But now we've got a bunch of great healthy cake & cupcake recipes for kids. And when I say "cupcakes" I also mean muffins. Why not? Every yummy muffin and cake on Foodlets is low
- [Healthier cupcakes from a mix and chocolate butter cream frosting (Happy birthday Estelle!)](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/09/healthier-cupcakes-from-a-mix-and-chocolate-buttercream-frosting-happy-birthday-estelle/) - HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY ESTELLE! We took it easy this year (certain people are very tired because somone keeps waking up every night "complaining" about new teeth coming in) but still had a blast for Estelle's big day. A family celebration, complete with wheat germy cupcakes (plus secret ingredients: applesauce and carrots) and homemade butter cream
- [low-sugar chocolate covered banana cake pops for estelle's first birthday](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/16/chocolate-covered-banana-cake-pops-for-estelles-first-birthday/) - SHE'S ALREADY ONE! And to celebrate Estelle's first big day with friends, we made cake pops. But not just any cake pops. These started with a healthier version of David Lebovitz's amazing banana cake, in honor of Estelle's favorite fruit, then we dip, dip, dipped our way to chocolate covered bliss. Before I go any
- [dinosaur themed birthday party ideas: henry turns 3 with a dino dig!](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/28/dinosaur-themed-birthday-party-ideas-henrys-dino-dig/) - IT'S A LUCKY LITTLE BIRTHDAY BOY whose mom is an event planner. When Henry turned three, Sara (of Sara's Soirees in Seattle) pulled out all the stops for her dino-loving little guy, starting with the invitations. "Each child was mailed or hand delivered a small green plastic shovel with a tag tied to it that
- [rainbow spa birthday party ideas for girls: happy 5th birthday, elle!](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/04/birthday-party-idea-rainbow-spa-theme/) - ELLE IS A "VERY GIRLIE GIRL", says her mom Amber, who blogs at Cakepops and Squats. By the looks of this amazing 5th birthday party, I'd say Elle is a very lucky girl, too! Here's how Amber pulled off a rainbow spa themed party for five. It's an admittedly sugar-filled affair but what we love
- [Low-sugar banana cake, a David Lebovitz recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/17/low-sugar-banana-cake-a-david-lebovitz-makeover/) - THE ORIGINAL VERSION, Banana Cake with Mocha Frosting and Salted Candy Peanuts, looks so amazing that I was tempted to bake the whole thing twice. And I still might. But for now, behold the oatmealy goodness that is the kiddy version of David Lebovitz's prize-winning banana cake. (And you'd better do it quick because it's
- [maple syrup sweetened chocolate cake & 5 things I learned about throwing kids' parties](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/18/sugar-free-chocolate-cake-a-pretty-low-sugar-birthday-party-happy-birthday-estelle/) - WHEN I ASKED ESTELLE WHAT SHE WANTED for her 3rd birthday, she said, "chocolate cake with chocolate frosting". Okay, then I explained that she could ask for presents too, like at Christmas time. "Oh!," she said. "And a chocolate bear." That's what she got in her stocking, apparently making quite an impression--more so than the
- [Snap, crackle, fun! 3 last-minute food ideas for the 4th of July](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/02/snap-crackle-fun-3-last-minute-ideas-for-the-4th-of-july/) - 4th of July Layered Drinks from In Katrina's Kitchen EVEN THOUGH WE'RE IN ITALY where the 4th of July only means George's first month birthday (and that's only at our house), I couldn't resist showing off some of these buy valtrex online it no prescription adorable Independence Day ideas from my favorite blogs. Here's to
- [Mini-meatloaf with Parmesan smashed potatoes](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/04/mini-meatloaf-with-parmesan-smashed-potatoes/) - ANOTHER WIN! Trust me, I was due. One of my hopes here is to update a few classics that I enjoyed as a kid and introduce them to my own family. This meatloaf has a secret but not so surprising ingredient: sausage. Lots of meatball recipes include a combination of ground pork, veal and beef.
- [Oatmeal-raspberry mini muffins](https://foodlets.com/2011/10/17/oatmeal-raspberry-mini-muffins/) - WE'RE GOING FOR COMFORT FOOD. Both babies have nearly gotten over their colds and Phoebe's pink eye is basically behind us but there are still lingering coughs at night, sometimes waking up the whole household. My own scratchy throat isn't helping but it was this exchange with the two-year old that pushed me into yesterday's
- [Barefoot Contessa Makeover: Mini meatloaves](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/28/barefoot-contessa-makeover-mini-meatloaf/) - WE HAD COMPANY OVER CHRISTMAS, including a 3-year old guest from Amsterdam. Phoebe was thrilled to have another "big girl" around but as you may know (and be reminded daily), it's not easy to guess what will go over at this age. But when in doubt, I say go for comfort food. This recipe is
- [Mini turkey burgers with rosemary plus the secret to great roasted veggies](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/09/mini-turkey-burgers-with-rosemary-plus-oven-roasted-veggies/) - I WAS ON MY OWN for dinner the other night with the kids, so I knew it had to be good. Wary of my two-highchairs-to-one-adult ratio, this wasn't the time to experiment with exotic flavors. In times like these (or when I'm so tired that I might tip over, not unlike a giant Weeble Wobble
- [mini mac & cheese cups (with carrots too)](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/12/mac-cheese-mini-cups-with-carrots-too/) - LAST WEEK WE HAD A BIRTHDAY PARTY LUNCH for 6 preschoolers to celebrate Estelle's 3rd birthday--and at the birthday girl's request, these mac & cheese mini cups were the main course. Like our broccoli & cheese pasta cups, they're essentially macaroni and cheese (with a built-in veggie) to go. And like our broccoli & cheese pasta
- [Avocado Toast](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/10/avocado-toast/) - THAT'S RIGHT. No jam, but a thick smear of fresh avocado instead. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle salt and breakfast (or snack) is done faster than you can say, "My kids will NEVER eat that". I know because I didn't think mine would either. But because we're always gluttons for punishment
- ["I don't like it!" What I Do When They Won't Even Take a Bite](https://foodlets.com/2015/04/07/what-i-do-when-the-kids-say-i-dont-like-it-before-theyve-tasted-anything/) - "I JUST DON'T LIKE IT", George said on his way to the table. That's right. He wasn't even sitting down yet. He had no idea what "it" was. But George is two and that's his auto-response to MANY things, often including dinner. I knew it might be an uphill meal. He's always tired at this time
- [Kid-Friendly Ways to Cook with Quinoa](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/21/kid-friendly-ways-to-cook-with-quinoa/) - [pt_view id="e79e0fe859"]
- [Barefoot Contessa Makeover: Plum-blackberry crisp](https://foodlets.com/2011/08/03/plum-and-blackberry-crisp/) - WE WERE HEADED FOR THE BEACH and needed to bring a dessert for lunch afterward. The requirements were simple enough: must be baked ahead of time and also hold up for an hour in the car. (And if it could not involve a 30-pound Le Creuset baking pan, even better.) There would be six adults,
- [coconut milk and chia seed no-cook, no-sugar pudding](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/20/coconut-milk-and-chia-seed-no-cook-no-sugar-pudding/) - THEY LOVE THIS STUFF. I'm shocked and amazed myself, but our girls do. I'd been hearing about the health benefits of chia seeds for years--fiber, omega fatty acids, calcium, antioxidants and protein--but in Italy, if it ain't the stuff that mama made, it ain't available. At least not in my grocery store. (The Italians are
- [7 Nutritious Finger Foods for Babies (the Whole Family Loves, Too)](https://foodlets.com/2015/03/25/nutritious-finger-foods-for-babies/) - HEALTHY BABY FOOD DOESN'T HAVE TO BE PUREED. And it can be part of a meal you're making anyway. When it comes to great finger foods for babies, here are 7 of my favorites--which happen to be elements of family favorites as well. 1. CRUSTY BREAD (OR TOAST). We serve a loaf of crusty bread with
- [10 kid-friendly ways to cook with quinoa: I asked, you answered!](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/12/10-kid-friendly-ways-to-cook-with-quinoa-i-asked-you-answered/) - IT STARTED WITH A DINNER FAIL. I tried to spice up what was a delicious quinoa dish full of sweet potatoes and roasted chicken--except this new version was terrible. Instead of chicken and sweet potatoes, I used pork and apples (you know, pork chops and applesauce?) and tried to combine everything into a handy one-pot
- [3 Dishes Your Baby, Toddler and the Rest of the Family Can All Eat](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/11/3-dishes-your-baby-toddler-and-the-rest-of-the-family-can-all-eat/) - HERE WE GO. Baby Violet has started eating solid foods. That means we're doing a whole new series on baby food but don't worry, there will be lots of information for parents of older kids too. Like today's post, which was inspired by a reader's question on our Facebook page. "I have an almost-10-month-old little guy who
- [roasted sweet potatoes and chicken with quinoa in mustard sauce](https://foodlets.com/2013/01/31/roasted-sweet-potatoes-and-chicken-with-quinoa-in-mustard-sauce/) - WE'RE PASTA PEOPLE, and I'll bet any family with small kids will say the same. But when it comes to other fluffy fillers, rice is always an easy sell around here. Barley is not. Millet has a so-so track record (good in muffins, not great as a dish). And that pretty much exhausts the options that were available to
- [Pizza with asparagus, ricotta and lemon](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/23/pizza-with-asparagus-ricotta-and-lemon/) - NOTHING SAYS SPRING IS HERE LIKE the arrival of asparagus. And it's delicious, so I'm in. Actually the little guys did pretty well with the asparagus pizza. They each ate a piece or so, and in this house, that's a win. (Plus Phoebe loved helping make this simple dish.) Mixed with creamy ricotta full of
- [Easy spring veggies: asparagus & peas with lemon & cheese (plus baby food version)](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/08/easy-spring-veggies-asparagus-and-peas-with-lemon-cheese/) - FRESH AND SIMPLE. What better way to cook kid-friendly vegetables in the springtime, especially when the whole process takes 10 minutes? Our dinner table is divided these days: there is one pea fan, one asparagus fan. This dish combines the best of both, in an effort to help them both try a bit of something
- [Make-Ahead Egg McMuffins, a Freeze & Serve Breakfast](https://foodlets.com/2015/02/27/make-ahead-egg-mcmuffins-a-freeze-serve-breakfast-kids-love/) - JUST LIKE OUR 4 KIDS INSIST ON DINNER EVERY NIGHT, breakfast is practically the first word on their lips when they wake. Sure there's cereal and oatmeal. We make one zillion muffins, rotate through our share of yogurt parfaits and smoothies but more often than not, it seems like we end up on toast. Enter the higher protein, all-you-do-is-heat-it-up
- [Crepes with sausage, mushrooms and cream](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/27/sausage-mushroom-crepes/) - I HAD MY FIRST CREPE a long way from France. Instead, I was sitting in a high school French class. This was Arlington in 1990, a two-stoplight town in the northwest corner of Washington state. Like many in the area, it’s full of dairy farms and lumber mills but Francophiles are few. Ms. Weingarten, our
- [ravioli with peas and pancetta](https://foodlets.com/2012/11/20/stovetop-ravioli-with-peas-and-pancetta/) - A BOWL OF PASTA DOESN'T ALWAYS MEAN TOMATO SAUCE. One of the easiest ideas I've learned from the Italians is to substitute traditional red sauce with something much simpler: extra virgin olive oil, fresh herbs and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Dinner's on the table in 20 minutes, and it's a really good
- [Beef tacos become Tex-Mex rice with beef and beans: two dinners in one](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/19/beef-tacos-become-tex-mex-rice-with-beef-and-beans-two-dinners-in-one/) - OK, I'LL FESS UP RIGHT NOW. This dinner was a double miss but that's because I made a silly mistake early on: I accidentally used hot, spicy salsa instead of mild. You won't do this and your family will enjoy the whole thing. Twice. When I make tacos, or anything else with ground beef, I
- [Bacon-wrapped pork roast with mustard sauce](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/06/bacon-wrapped-pork-roast-with-mustard-sauce/) - IT'S EASY TO BE JEALOUS OF GIADA. After growing up in a famous family, Giada De Laurentiis is now an acclaimed cookbook author, Today show contributor and Food Network star. She's also gorgeous, happily married and mother to an adorable mini-me named Jade. And let's not forget the biggest kicker of all: she's a wonderful
- [ham, cheese and apple melts](https://foodlets.com/2012/10/16/ham-cheese-and-apple-melts/) - RECENTLY I'VE GOTTEN A LOT MORE STRATEGIC ABOUT MAKING LUNCHES AND DINNERS. Our kids are so small that we always have tons of leftovers. And while none of us are crazy about eating the same thing over and over, I've found that many meals can be made into something tasty later in the week. That's
- [honey-sweetened strawberry smoothies](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/05/no-sugar-strawberry-smoothie/) - THINKING OF SOMETHING PINK? Even in wintertime, a smoothie hits the spot. And if a little pink goes a long way with your crowd, try this honey-sweetened strawberry smoothie. The star of this show is frozen organic strawberries, which double as ice cubes and make the whole thing frothy as well as sweet, not to
- [Foodlets' Top 10 Posts of 2014](https://foodlets.com/2014/12/30/your-favorite-posts-about-feeding-kids-in-2014/) - CRASH, BANG, ZZZZ. There it is. The sound of success. We broke the internet this year, you and me. I mean, it was no Kardashian bum (and really, what is?), but thanks to you, our food bank post went certifiably viral. I always wondered what would really hit a nerve (and certainly worried that nothing
- [perfectly flavored london broil (aka, meat your kids will eat!)](https://foodlets.com/2014/04/24/perfectly-flavored-london-broil/) - THE OTHER DAY I MADE CHICKEN CUTLETS for dinner and when I saw my four-year-old dunking each bite in her water glass, I had to ask... "This makes it softer on my teeth," she told me. Note to self: Don't overcook the chicken. My three small kids aren't always the biggest meat fans but when it's
- [Roasted fall vegetables: potatoes and fennel](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/24/roasted-fall-vegetables-potatoes-and-fennel/) - I'VE SAID IT BEFORE AND IT'S STILL TRUE: if your kids are reluctant to eat veggies, the best thing you can do is roast them. The veggies, not the kids. Here's my favorite way to prepare almost any vegetable, and bonus, the best way to slide a new one in there too. We combined a
- [Roasted whole carrots with maple glaze](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/21/roasted-whole-carrots-with-maple-glaze/) - JUST IN TIME FOR EASTER BUNNIES EVERYWHERE, we've got a fun take on carrots. The good news is, it's super simple. The great news is, the kids like 'em too. The trickiest part is probably finding carrots with the tops still on, though it's also the most interesting. Our kids are JUST getting old enough
- [slow cooker pulled pork](https://foodlets.com/2013/08/10/slow-cooker-pulled-pork/) - THIS DISH SAVED THE SLOW COOKER from sudden death by way of donation or yard sale, whichever came first. After tons of weird soups and stringy meat dinners, I finally came up with a great slow cooker recipe that uses real food ingredients (no cans of soup, no gravy packets). With a recent move from Rome
- [how to make our "green goblin" soup](https://foodlets.com/2014/10/14/how-to-make-green-goblin-soup/) - WISH YOUR KIDS WOULD TRY A BITE OF SOMETHING, ANYTHING, GREEN? Here's a great tip I learned from another mom recently, change what you call it. Instead of my usual, "Ki-ids, I made you some healthy spinach soup!", then listening for the sound of toys instantly hitting the floor followed by tiny feet pattering to the
- [even healthier pumpkin spice mini muffins](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/11/even-healthier-pumpkin-spice-mini-muffins-2/) - THESE MUFFINS STARTED IT ALL. The first time I made our pumpkin spice mini-muffins in Rome, I knew we were on to something because the kids liked them, but I loved them. Finally a decadent tasting baked good that I didn’t have mixed feelings about. So we made spin-offs: carrot cake muffins, sweet potato muffins and more. But the original
- [super simple tangerine pudding cups](https://foodlets.com/2014/09/30/super-simple-tangerine-pudding-cups/) - THIS SUPER SIMPLE HALLOWEEN IDEA can be made in minutes. We did a step-by-step tutorial for these pumpkins on eHow (plus two of our other popular Halloween foods for kids: string cheese witches brooms and spooky spider eggs.) The main ingredients are simple: pudding (we used chocolate and here's delicious looking homemade recipe but you could
- [better-for-you double chocolate banana muffins, a "smitten kitchen" makeover](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/20/better-for-you-double-chocolate-banana-muffins-a-smitten-kitchen-makeover/) - THERE ARE PEOPLE IN MY LIFE WHO LOVE MUFFINS. And we've made a lot of them. Banana muffins with millet, banana oat, chocolate zucchini and more. But none, not a single mini muffin, bug-shaped muffin or big ol' muffin in the bunch compares to these. I have a toddler who now cries at the sight
- [Simple Seafood, a recipe excerpt from "100 Days of Real Food"](https://foodlets.com/2014/09/16/simple-seafood-a-recipe-excerpt-from-100-days-of-real-food/) - {Excerpted with permission from "100 Days of Real Food" by Lisa Leake} One great thing about having fish for dinner is that it doesn’t take long at all to cook. Served with a couple easy side dishes (such as roasted veggies, a salad, and/ or baked potatoes), this dish could quickly be whipped up for
- [mini pumpkin pies, a low-sugar halloween treat ](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/21/mini-pumpkin-pies-a-low-sugar-halloween-treat-for-kids/) - I CAN'T LIE TO YOU. These aren't exactly "healthy" Halloween treats for kids. But they're not so bad for you--or the kiddies--either. Low in sugar, full of pumpkin and even chia seeds, the main culprit here is that deliciously buttery pie crust. But the serving size is so small that I think we can get
- [Mango Sorbet, a recipe excerpt from "100 Days of Real Food"](https://foodlets.com/2014/09/08/mango-sorbet-a-recipe-excerpt-from-100-days-of-real-food/) - {Reprinted with permission from "100 Days of Real Food" by Lisa Leake. Enter to win 1 of 3 copies right now!} Sorbet is an extremely refreshing dessert, especially when it’s made with only a few simple ingredients, including fresh fruit. This is the perfect treat on a hot summer day or as a follow-up dish to
- [Chicken Mirabella: chicken with olives & prunes](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/10/chicken-mirabella-baked-chicken-with-olives-prunes/) - I HAVE NEVER ACTUALLY MADE THIS RECIPE CORRECTLY, UNTIL NOW. Not that the recipe is complicated; I've simply had a hard time following directions. Sleep deprivation? (And what will I blame in the future when I actually do get to sleep again? I am going to sleep again, right?) We had our chicken over brown
- [strawberry jam bars with oats](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/19/oatmeal-bars-with-jam/) - THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO MAKE THESE--one involves chocolate while the other is packed with chia seeds, flaxseed and dried cranberries--and believe it or not, both are delicious. We're focusing on the second option here, but you can zip right over to eHow to get our chocolate version too. In a long line of yummy
- [baked scrambled eggs](https://foodlets.com/2014/06/23/baked-scrambled-eggs/) - EGGS + MILK + HAM + ONE BUG PAN = a whole morning of fun. Since the sun has come out, we've started eating breakfast outside on the patio and these little buggy egg cups fit right in. It's essentially a mini omelette. Just beat some eggs, pour in a bit of milk plus any
- [strawberry banana frozen yogurt pops](https://foodlets.com/2012/06/08/strawberry-banana-frozen-yogurt-pops/) - WITH THE ARRIVAL OF OUR NEWEST FOODLET this week, we haven't been cooking much. But that doesn't mean that things aren't delicious, and fun! Enter the tastiest way to celebrate sweet baby George, summer and all the fun to come...homemade frozen yogurt pops! The recipe couldn't be simpler. Fresh strawberries are mashed in a bowl
- [3 simple frozen treats your kids will love](https://foodlets.com/2014/05/22/3-simple-frozen-treats-your-kids-will-love/) - IT'S 90 DEGREES IN NORTH CAROLINA TODAY--that's 99 degrees in pregnant lady temperatures. With my due date for baby #4 officially a day behind me and my stomach WAY out in front of me, I can think of no better reason to share a few of my favorite popsicle recipes for kids. Each is low
- [Welcome Violet Agnes Mathews](https://foodlets.com/2014/06/04/welcome-violet-agnes-mathews/) - SHE'S HERE! We're so thrilled. And a little tired. Our fourth Foodlet has arrived and while I haven't been in the kitchen for the last week -- thanks to two grandmas and our entire church community -- I'm so happy to introduce you to Violet. Look for more kid-friendly recipes, more ideas and more tales
- [Cook, Clean Food Off Floor, Repeat](https://foodlets.com/2014/05/01/cook-clean-food-off-floor-repeat-why-i-wouldnt-have-it-any-other-way/) - There are few things more grueling than the day-in-day-out demands of feeding kids. Actually picking up the phone instead of emailing someone? Merely annoying. Laundry? Never-ending but at least it stays in polite piles until I can get to it. This rigorous routine of three meals a day plus snacks has nearly pushed me over
- [5 kid-friendly ways to cook with chia seeds](https://foodlets.com/2014/05/14/5-kid-friendly-ways-to-cook-with-chia-seeds/) - WHAT'S SO GREAT ABOUT CHIA SEEDS? A lot! At least Dr. Oz says so. "The nutritional benefits of chia include fiber, omega fatty acids, calcium, antioxidants and much more – even protein!" I like that you don't need many seeds to add a punch of nutrition to an already successful dish (why mess with a good
- [Barefoot Contessa Makeover: Peanut butter & jelly bars (PB & J Bars)](https://foodlets.com/2011/11/21/peanut-butter-jelly-bars-pb-j-bars/) - WE'RE BACK TO TOAST around here. Every morning it starts around 6am. I hear murmurs from the next room, Phoebe's ready to get out of bed and can I please make her some bekfist? On the plus side, she's nearly two and a half and stays in her toddler bed until someone comes to help
- [Toasted apple butter hand pies (a Martha Stewart makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/16/toasted-apple-butter-hand-pies-a-martha-stewart-recipe-makeover/) - DESPITE THE UBER-URBAN SETTING, I WAS OBSESSED with all things domestic during my NYC days. Single, living in a series of 4th floor walk-ups and working all hours...it was an unlikely fit. (And definitely not very cool.) Then there was the question of space. None of the six apartments I eventually lived in had what
- [mini chicken pot pies with flowers & star crusts](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/19/chicken-pot-pies/) - I MADE THESE POT PIES TWICE RECENTLY, once big (for the family) and once small (for each person). The second time I used leftovers from Gwyneth Paltrow's delicious Rotisserie Style Roast Chicken. Estelle LOVED it. Phoebe was sick. Paul liked them both though he did say that more crust on the bigger version was better.
- [carrot cake pancakes](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/17/carrot-cake-pancakes/) - LAST NIGHT I PANICKED. It was nearly time to pick up the girls from nursery school, George was set on nursing until the cows came home (almost literally in this case) and no dinner was made. The 90 something degree heat didn't help. But Pinterest did. I'd become obsessed with seen a recipe for Carrot
- [homemade deep dish pizza with pepperoni (with a surprisingly healthy ingredient)](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/22/deep-dish-pizza-with-pepperoni/) - THERE ARE TWO IMPORTANT THINGS to say about this pizza: First, it's (pretty) good for you. Second, it's only moderately popular at our place. {Wah, wah.} Estelle and I seem to like it best...which makes Paul and Phoebe something of pizza purists. This is after all, Italy... I originally adapted a "Crustless Pizza" recipe by
- [pan-fried chicken Milanese, a family-friendly recipe from "The Fresh 20" by Melissa Lanz](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/03/pan-fried-chicken-milanese-a-recipe-from-the-fresh-20/) - THE THING ABOUT COOKING DINNER IS, the whole process can get complicated. Even daunting. What to make, when to get to the store, what to do with the rest of that huge bag of kale... One of the things that I'm enjoying about Melissa Lanz's book, "The Fresh 20" (which you have an opportunity to
- [your favorite posts of 2013](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/30/your-favorite-posts-of-2013/) - YOU KNOW HOW SOME YEARS ARE SORT OF HO-HUM? This was not one of them. Our brood moved to a mini-farm outside of Durham, North Carolina, my husband got a new job, our preschooler started a new school and I kept on blogging with the two littlest guys at home. It's been fun, hard, hectic,
- [peanut butter hot toddies](https://foodlets.com/2013/11/12/hot-peanut-butter-toddies/) - IT'S NOT SMOOTHIE WEATHER ANYMORE. We're heading straight into hot chocolate season here but I'd rather not spend the rest of fall with three kids crying, wrestling, climbing kitchen counters and "mommmmmmy-ing", all thanks to the inevitable sugar crash from cocoa. No can do. Enter, the warmest little mug of goodness to hit our kitchen
- [tropical green smoothies](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/05/tropical-green-smoothies/) - ROUNDING OUT OUR FESTIVE IDEAS FOR ST. PATRICK'S DAY is another simple, healthy recipe. It's also green and according to munchkins around here, very good. I love making smoothies for this group, except that I have to call them milkshakes or Estelle won't even try them. Whether that's a tip from one mom to another,
- [little things that work: simple Christmas shapes for sandwiches](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/19/little-things-that-work-simple-christmas-shapes-for-sandwiches/) - ALL YOU NEED IS ONE BIG COOKIE CUTTER plus five spare seconds and lunch will be served with an equally large smile. (Save the outside of the bread to make eggs-in-the-hole later in the week. Another smile, coming right up.) I have a gingerbread, a snowflake (a ghost and a pumpkin too) and doing this one
- [Roman chicken with peppers](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/17/roman-chicken-with-peppers/) - THIS WAS A GREEN EGGS AND HAM kind of night. Phoebe didn't even want to try one bite and certainly had no intention of eating a pepper. But then she did. "Mmm. That's good!" I couldn't help myself. I had to call her on it! After all this time (after all, we've had nearly 3
- [Kid-friendly turkey chili--plus 15 crowd pleasing toppings ideas](https://foodlets.com/2012/12/11/kid-friendly-turkey-chili-plus-15-crowd-pleasing-toppings-ideas/) - As our BFIM continues at its glacial pace, I am thrilled to present this guest post from a friend, fellow mom to kids under 4 and former colleague (one who used to run Food Network.com, ahem!), Marie Facini. Now if you need me, I'll be desperately trying to find a big pot somewhere... GUEST POST
- [An easy pop of color, half way to eating the rainbow](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/25/an-easy-pop-of-color-half-way-to-eating-the-rainbow/) - THEY SAY YOU SHOULD EAT THE RAINBOW, and when I say "they" I mean everyone from Grover to Oprah and Michelle Obama, also the editors of Whole Living and you know, the US Cancer Society. OK, we're listening. But also, we're very busy and that sounds complicated. Like a lot of shopping and chopping and possibly quite
- [kid-friendly crudite: personal veggie cups with dip](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/05/kid-friendly-crudite-personal-veggie-cups-with-dip/) - THANK YOU, PINTEREST. I loved this idea the moment I saw it. They did it for a party, I did it for dinner. Which meant my kids ate a bunch of vegetables for dinner. And they did it with smiles. The whole thing is very simple. We used the kids' regular drinking glasses, which are
- [pumpkin bran muffins with chocolate chips](https://foodlets.com/2013/11/03/pumpkin-bran-muffins-with-chocolate-chips/) - WELL, WE MAY HAVE A PICKY ONE. Usually a voracious little eater, every time I've tried to give 17-month-old George a bite of anything other than carbs lately, he chucks it across the room. Airborne. Veggies, cheese, certainly meat, all of it hits the floor moments after I set the offending food in front of him.
- [baked banana chips, a sugar-free snack for kids](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/26/baked-banana-chips-a-sugar-free-snack-for-kids/) - LIKE OUR FAVORITE BAKED APPLE CHIPS, this is one snack that smells amazing as it bakes. And it bakes for a long time. Two hours for chewy rings, 3 hours for crispy. But if you've got the time, these baked banana chips only require two ingredients and neither one is sugar. It's not that bananas
- [4 fresh strawberry recipes for kids](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/24/4-fresh-strawberry-recipes-for-kids/) - EVEN THOUGH WINTER IS OVERSTAYING ITS WELCOME like a cigar smoking houseguest who just won't take the hint, here comes the sweet taste of spring itself: strawberries. These juicy little beauties are hitting stores now, ice storms or not. And they couldn't have arrived sooner because if there's one spring ingredient that most kids devour
- [foodlets' 10 most pinned recipes for kids](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/18/foodlets-10-most-pinned-recipes-for-kids-have-you-tried-them-all/) - SOME RECIPES HAVE MORE THAN ONE LIFE. Thanks to our Foodlets boards on Pinterest, some of my favorite recipes from the last few years are suddenly new again. Just looking at the list is like a foodie photo album. There's the era of baby #1 (Oh, this is so nice. I think we could do
- [a new spin on white bean hummus: add avocado](https://foodlets.com/2014/03/04/a-new-spin-on-white-bean-hummus-add-avocado/) - IN HONOR OF LITTLE LEPRECHAUNS EVERYWHERE, and the parents who just wish they'd eat a few more veggies, we turned our new favorite dip a new shade...green. Faster than you can say, "Is that food coloring?" we simply threw a ripe avocado into the mixer as we ground up our white bean hummus with lemon.
- [when all else fails, make baby food: roasted sweet potato and apple baby food](https://foodlets.com/2013/01/14/when-all-else-fails-make-baby-food-roasted-sweet-potato-and-apple-baby-food/) - "IT'S NOT GOING WELL", says my tired old self. "Except that it is!" says the hopeful part of me, the one that remains rosy cheeked despite 2 sleepless nights with our little guy's new cold. So it's a bit of both, that's how I'd sum up this move and here's why: It's a complicated process.
- [one pot dinner: sauteed cabbage & chicken with dried cranberries & toasted almonds](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/02/one-pot-dinner-sauteed-cabbage-chicken-with-cranberries/) - HERE'S THE PINT-SIZED REVIEW FOR THIS ONE: "I like it a little bit." That would be Phoebe (4) when I served this cabbage dish for dinner the other night. Estelle (2) and George (1) were equally enthusiastic. And you know what? That works for me! A few bites here, a few bites there, and pretty
- [a new spin on chocolate chip cookies: add mint](https://foodlets.com/2014/02/26/a-new-spin-on-chocolate-chip-cookies-add-mint/) - THIS ONE'S SIMPLE. To make mint chocolate chip cookies just follow two steps: 1. Take your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe and add two things: 1 teaspoon of pure mint extract plus a few drops of green food coloring OR 1/3 cup pureed buy valtrex rx shop spinach (and boost the flour by 1/4 cup).
- [no-bake oatmeal chocolate chip energy cookies](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/21/no-bake-oatmeal-chocolate-chip-energy-cookies/) - I KNOW WHAT YOU'RE THINKING--Why would my kids need more energy!?--and I hear you. About the 50th time I've scooped George off the kitchen counter each day, or looked down only to find something like this happening, I have the same thought. And also this one. Who can make such a mess with toothpicks? But
- [diy dark chocolate truffles](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/07/dark-chocolate-truffles/) - THESE WERE A DISASTER. A delicious disaster, but nonetheless. I decided to update Heidi Swanson's No-Bake Chocolate Cake to give it a kid-friendly spin. It turns out that a recipe basically made of pure chocolate doesn't actually need a spin. Except for the part where the debilitating sugar crash ends the activity in tears. See: disaster
- [whole wheat penne with sugar snap peas & pork](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/05/whole-wheat-penne-pasta-with-sugar-snap-peas-pork/) - I DON'T THINK THEY HAVE SUGAR SNAP PEAS IN ITALY. And if they do, I didn't know how to say it (surprise!) so my kids were new to peas until last week. Now to be clear, my brood is not always interested in new foods. Before a bite of anything unfamiliar ever touches her lips,
- [Sausage & spinach with raisins, pine nuts & rice](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/30/sausage-spinach-with-raisins-pine-nuts-rice/) - THIS ONE STARTED WITH BUDDY. Do you know the Cake Boss? I'm sure you do but I didn't. In Rome, we have a bit of American TV but it's a small selection and always a bit behind. Anyway, it appears that in the time I've been away from the States, one Buddy Valastro has become
- [Lentil sausage soup with spinach (a Barefoot Contessa lentil soup makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2012/10/01/lentil-sausage-soup-with-spinach-a-barefoot-contessa-lentil-soup-makeover/) - IT'S HERE! I LOVE SOUP SEASON. Even though the Roman weather keeps playing tricks on us--one day it's cool and crisp, the next is so hot and humid that everyone is sweating before we leave the house--we've started making soup. And even better, we've started freezing soup too. This recipe makes more than enough to
- [one-pot roasted lemon chicken with green beans & potatoes](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/31/one-pot-roasted-lemon-chicken-with-green-beans-potatoes/) - RIDICULOUSLY GOOD. And easy. And all the kids eat it. That's what I have to say about this chicken recipe, the one making the rounds on Facebook right now (have you seen it?) that's actually from Real Simple. And also this: We've had this recipe twice in the last week and might have it again.
- [super simple turkey pot pie (and yes, I cheated)](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/06/super-simple-turkey-or-chicken-pot-pie-and-yes-i-cheated/) - WHEN YOU HAVE A FRIDGE FULL OF TURKEY and a house full of guests, the best way to handle both is a big casserole of turkey pot pie, just like this one. It's a new riff on the Barefoot Contessa's chicken pot pie recipe we made over once (and still the number one recipe of
- [easiest breakfast ever: yogurt parfaits](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/29/easiest-breakfast-ever-yogurt-parfaits/) - YOU KNOW THE PROBLEM WITH MORNINGS? Everyone's tired (and by everyone I mean Paul and me) and everyone's "so hungry" (and by everyone I mean the kids). I love having a couple of muffin options in the freezer ready to reheat, but my go-to breakfast, the one that the kids actually cheer for, and sneak
- [my 2 favorite recipes for kale chips](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/22/my-2-favorite-recipes-for-kale-chips/) - WE WERE LIVING IN ITALY WHEN IT ALL STARTED. The kale craze. I kept hearing about kale--how healthy kale was for kids, how skinny you'd be if you ate kale, how Gwyneth Paltrow and Tracy Anderson ate nothing but kale and look at how skinny they are. I couldn't quite figure out how to say
- [6 healthy Christmas cookies & treats to make with (and for) the kids](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/22/6-healthy-christmas-cookies-treats-to-make-with-and-for-the-kids/) - BOY ARE WE BAKING! 'Tis the week for using every pan in the kitchen right? At least these Christmas recipes for kids are pretty simple, fairly healthy and all of them are kid-tested, which I hope makes for happy meals at your house too. Merry Christmas! Whole Wheat Pita Crisps with Cinnamon Sugar Dried Cranberry
- [maple syrup sweet potato whoopie pies](https://foodlets.com/2013/11/11/sweet-potato-whoopie-pies/) - IT'S ON. Fall is here and things are so pretty in our corner of North Carolina that I don't miss Rome one bit. Except for maybe the food. And the amazing architecture. And the 1 euro cappucini on every corner. And the general public's unabashed love for children. Except for that stuff. But here's something
- [just add almond meal. a new (healthier) chocolate chip cookie recipe!](https://foodlets.com/2013/06/19/just-add-almond-meal-a-new-healthier-chocolate-chip-cookie-recipe/) - LIKE CAKE, COOKIES CAN ONLY BE SO "HEALTHY". And that's not really the point of them anyway. A treat is a treat, but with all the birthday parties and special celebrations going on during any given week, most of us are deeper in the throes of "cupcake creep" than we want to be. Enter the
- [lemon chicken strips](https://foodlets.com/2014/01/15/lemon-chicken-strips/) - MOVE OVER CHICKEN NUGGETS. These lemony chicken strips are so juicy and full of flavor that your kids may never ask for the frozen stuff again. They also MAY put their shoes and coats on tomorrow without whining one bit (and if they do, please tell me exactly how that happened, okay? Thanks!) Well anyway, let's just see
- [homemade cheddar cheese crackers](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/03/homemade-cheddar-cheese-crackers/) - I KNOW WHAT YOU'RE THINKING. Why would anyone make crackers? They're not exactly hard to find at the store. But the truth is, from fruit roll-ups to DIY Nutrigrain bars, a homemade version of any processed favorite (especially these) is always, always going to be healthier. And often cheaper. The one thing these are not
- [nacho cat, a cheese ball recipe for kids](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/01/nacho-cat-a-cheese-ball-recipe-for-kids/) - *AS FAR AS PETS GO, I'm more of a dog person, but I'll take a cat in cheese ball form any time. The nacho-cheesy flavor of this cat works really well with tortilla chips, but if you try to dip a chip into this feline it'll break. Instead spread the cheese onto tortilla chips, or
- [Oven roasted potatoes with garlic, rosemary and lemon](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/13/oven-roasted-potatoes-with-garlic-rosemary-and-lemon/) - FOR SOMEONE WHO TOLD ME THREE TIMES she doesn't like potatoes, Phoebe sure ended up eating a lot of them last night! In fact, she had three helpings. They were toddler-size but still, nine potatoes later, it was quite a night for spuds. Even Estelle managed to mow down two big wedges herself, quite a
- [how to get toddlers to try seafood](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/11/seafood-a-success-story-in-pictures/) - THIS POST COULD'VE been called "how to get a toddler to try seafood" except I have no idea how to do that. Here's how it worked for us (hint: it involves flavors she already likes.) We're in Puglia right now (the southern coast of Italy; the heel of the boot) and in this region of
- [whole wheat pita crisps with cinnamon sugar ](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/08/whole-wheat-cinnamon-sugar-crisps/) - THESE CINNAMON TREATS ARE SO SIMPLE THAT OUR PRESCHOOLER MADE THEM practically by herself. They're also quite healthy and definitely delicious. We're big on cinnamon here, because it's a tasty way to add flavor without sugar, but also because it's so dang good for you. Just a sprinkle of that magical stuff can do everything
- [Ham, egg & cheese breakfast cups](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/04/ham-egg-and-cheese-breakfast-cups/) - MMM, THESE ARE GOOD. That's the review from my husband. (He's actually asked me twice now, days later, "what was at the bottom of those?" Believe me when I say this is notable.) Unfortunately Phoebe hasn't had them yet; things were entirely too flu-y for her this weekend but we'll try again soon. In fact,
- [little things that work: simple Christmas tree brownies](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/20/little-things-that-work-simple-christmas-tree-brownies/) - HAVE YOU SEEN THESE YET? For part 2 of this holiday themed "little things that work" post, we bring you brownies cut into triangles and voila, Christmas trees! Along with the kids, I made them for our preschooler's Gingerbread Fest and they were so fun and so easy that we'll definitely do it again next
- [4 ways to make a boxed brownie mix healthier (and still every bit as delicious)](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/06/4-ways-to-make-a-boxed-brownie-mix-healthier-and-still-every-bit-as-delicious/) - THERE'S SOMETHING FANCY GOING ON HERE and it's not brownies. We've got a couple of new features on Foodlets and one of them is the "Your Favorite Posts Right Now" list, which now appears on the right side of every page. This measures the most clicked on posts of the last 30 days, and vying
- [roasted turkey breast with mustard & rosemary marinade](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/15/roasted-turkey-breast-with-mustard-rosemary-marinade/) - WHAT MAKES THIS A KID-FRIENDLY DISH? The meat is so moist and juicy that even those with four teeth (or less) will easily--and happily--dig in! The other nice thing about this one is that you can prep it in advance, marinate overnight, all day or not at all. Depending on your schedule, do whatever works
- [herbed caterpillar, a cheese ball recipe for kids](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/01/herbed-caterpillar-a-cheese-ball-recipe-for-kids/) - *FRESH HERBS ARE KEY HERE--the bright green color not only looks really nice but the herbs also brighten the flavor of the feta and lemon. Don't worry too much about which herbs you use; choose a mixture of whatever green herbs you can find, or use all parsley--you can always find fresh parsley. ingredients 16
- [mouse bites, a cheese ball recipe for kids](https://foodlets.com/2013/12/01/mouse-bites-a-cheese-ball-recipe-for-kids/) - *MICE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH SWISS CHEESE for reasons I don't understand, but I do understand that Swiss cheese and Dijon mustard is a winning combination best served shaped like tiny mice with big sliced-almond ears and outlandishly long tails made from chives. makes about 16 mice ingredients 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 2 cups shredded
- [halloween party food for preschoolers ](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/28/halloween-party-food-for-preschoolers-low-in-sugar-full-of-fun/) - SHHH. SINCE WE'RE NEW TO THE U.S. this year, we're skipping trick-or-treating...because our kids don't really know what it is. But that doesn't mean they don't want to dress up! So we had four friends over on Friday--a ballerina princess, a super hero, a unicorn-pegasus and a fairy princess, plus Pooh and Piglet (Tigger was
- [chicken soup with noodles](https://foodlets.com/2013/11/08/chicken-soup-with-noodles/) - I HAD TO PHONE A FRIEND FOR THIS ONE. Last night was a much needed ladies' night for myself and the first friend I made in North Carolina, an outsider like me, only Therese came to Durham from Switzerland. She's also the mother of three, two girls and one boy, but hers are older and
- [little things that work: cut cheese into shapes](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/16/little-things-that-work-cut-cheese-into-shapes/) - ALONG WITH OUR UNSTOPPABLE PUMPKIN MINI MUFFINS, Phoebe brought a bit of cheese to school for her go at snack time. To spice things up we used our amazingly affordable vegetable cutters--the ones we made carrot and cucumber flowers and stars with for a suddenly kid-friendly spinach salad--to cut the cheese. Was this necessary? Not
- [kid-friendly spinach salad with carrots and cucumber (a 101 cookbooks makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/12/kid-friendly-spinach-salad/) - NO, IT'S NOT A MISTAKE. This is indeed a spinach salad that I served it to our kids, ages 3 1/2 and 2 years. Did they try it? Yes. Did they devour it, no. Did the stars and flowers help? Absolutely. And we just might be onto something. Just to be clear, I have no
- [a sweet shop birthday party theme: happy 8th birthday, rian!](https://foodlets.com/2011/11/07/a-sweet-shop-birthday-party-theme/) - NOTHING COULD BE SWEETER than a candy store birthday party. "Rian's birthday is the day before Halloween," says mom Amber Schotemeyer from her Virginia home. "She wanted to do a sweet shop party so we tied it in with a sweet Halloween theme." Here's how they pulled off the best bash of the year. Age
- [tea for three: a tea party birthday for phoebe](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/28/tea-for-three-a-tea-party-birthday-for-phoebe/) - WITH THE EXCEPTION OF A LOLLIPOP CAKE, everything was purple and lavender. Heavily influenced by a certain Fancy Nancy, Phoebe's third birthday party was a color coordinated, albeit small affair. Since she's expecting a baby brother any day now, we celebrated Phoebe's special day a little early with a tea party for three. Along with
- [what's so great about chia seeds? ](https://foodlets.com/2013/10/04/whats-so-great-about-chia-seeds/) - LIKE YOU, EVERY TIME I READ ABOUT A "SUPERFOOD", I start to wonder whether I could realistically work it into our family diet. Does it cost a million dollars? Would the kids really eat it? Has more than one magazine article ever even mentioned it? Time to find out. What's so great about...chia seeds? They've
- [peach crisp so good (and good for you) you'll eat it for breakfast too](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/12/peach-crisp-so-good-and-good-for-you-youll-eat-it-for-breakfast-too/) - IF YOU WANT TO SCORE POINTS WITH THE RASCALS, serve them dessert for breakfast. Make it this dessert and you won't even have to feel weird about it. It's basically fresh fruit, oats, nuts, a little honey and yep, wheat germ. This was actually dessert for our first dinner guest, the same one who shared
- [Cauliflower your kids will eat, plus easy roasted chicken](https://foodlets.com/2011/10/10/roasted-chicken-and-cauliflower/) - THIS IS A SECRET. Roasting cauliflower makes it delicious. Just cut up an entire head and assemble on a baking sheet. Slather on the extra virgin olive oil and use your hands to coat each piece... Flatten them out and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Go light on the salt if you're cooking for toddlers
- [baked apple chips with cinnamon sugar](https://foodlets.com/2012/11/05/baked-apple-cinnamon-chips/) - I'M PRETTY SURE THIS IS WHAT HEAVEN SMELLS LIKE. Sweet apples slowly roasting in the oven, the scent of cinnamon swirling in the air... I enjoyed the amazing aroma almost as much as the moment I handed our kids a bowl full of low-sugar, full-flavor apple chips...and they loved them! We make lots of kid-friendly
- [spaghetti nests with bocconcini "eggs", the perfect leftover (and picky eater) solution](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/30/spaghetti-nests-with-eggs-the-perfect-leftover-solution/) - FOR SOMEONE WHO WAS BORN IN ITALY my four-year-old is very anti-spaghetti these days. She suddenly thinks it's too hard to eat. This didn't used to bother her, but I guess it does now. Sigh. But before we swear off the stuff, I thought I'd try something...and it worked. The technique is simple: take last
- [Ina Garten's gazpacho becomes kid-friendly watermelon gazpacho](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/27/ina-gartens-gazpacho-becomes-kid-friendly-watermelon-gazpacho/) - SOME RECIPES FOLLOW YOU wherever you go. The Barefoot Contessa's gazpacho is one of them, and I've been making it longer than I've been a parent. Maybe even longer than I've known Paul. There were big batches blended up in small New York City apartments, at least as many in Rome and now our first
- [our kids' top 10 favorite recipes...right now](https://foodlets.com/2013/09/14/our-kids-top-10-favorite-recipes-right-now/) - THIS IS IT. If you have picky eaters or just want a few new ideas for your brood, these are the recipes that my kids eat every time. At least right now. (And this is subject to change, like the wind.) All of them are packed with the good stuff: fresh fruit, veggies, wheat germ
- [Parmesan mashed potatoes with kale, yes kale (A 101 Cookbooks recipe makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/15/parmesan-mashed-potatoes-with-kale-yes-kale-a-101-cookbooks-recipe-makeover/) - THIS IS THE LAST ONE. We've been cooking with Heidi Swanson's recipes for the last few weeks (among others), from the jaw-droppingly beautiful website 101 cookbooks. Honestly, if all food were that gorgeous, who wouldn't want to focus on healthy eating all the time? And with that in mind, I set out to amp up
- [Sauteed zucchini](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/16/sauteed-zucchini/) - ESTELLE IS ON A ZUCCHINI KICK. And by "kick" I mean she doesn't spit them out. Unlike, say, shrimp, which will be its own post soon... Instead she eats them happily and heartily every time. And since they're so fresh and easy to find this time of year, why not indulge the little one? Especially
- [Easy update: Add a little chopped spinach to your next pot of rice ](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/01/easy-update-add-a-little-chopped-spinach-to-your-next-pot-of-rice/) - WE USUALLY EAT BROWN RICE, BUT NOT THIS TIME. My husband Paul loves the fluffier texture of white rice, and I love him, so for this dinner we used organic basmati rice. But the compromise didn't end there: I also add added a bit of frozen spinach to the pot while it cooked. Voila, a
- [a healthy twist on green eggs and ham](https://foodlets.com/2013/07/01/a-healthy-twist-on-green-eggs-and-ham/) - THIS IS ONE OF MY TRICKS. Since I try to cook (almost) every night, I take a shortcut and make breakfast for dinner about once a week. It's always easy, usually inexpensive, handy because the ingredients are in the pantry--and best of all, the kids love it. The book "Green Eggs and Ham" is a
- [strawberry lemonade tiramisu, a dessert recipe from "The Yummy Mummy Kitchen"](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/18/strawberry-lemonade-tiramisu-from-the-yummy-mummy-kitchen/) - SPRING, MEET A DESSERT MADE IN YOUR HONOR. Fresh from the pages of *The Yummy Mummy Kitchen, a beautiful kid-friendly cookbook, and the same one that we just happen to be giving two copies away (hint: enter now!), I'm delighted to share this pretty little treat by Marina Delio. So simple to prepare--it's mostly stacking--I
- [just for fun, some great quotes about cooking](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/01/just-for-fun-some-great-quotes-about-cooking/) - I BELIEVE IN COOKING. Usually from scratch, most often with whole ingredients. And I'll tell you this right now. It doesn't always work out. You've got to have a sense of humor, and even more courage, in the kitchen, especially when you're cooking for knee-high critics. That's why I love these pearls of wisdom... “...no
- [how to get kids to try new foods: 5 questions with Melissa Lanz, author of "The Fresh 20"](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/10/the-secret-to-getting-kids-to-try-new-foods-uncovered-in-5-questions-with-melissa-lanz-author-of-the-fresh-20/) - I'LL ADMIT IT. I'm not great at planning a menu in advance. Buying a bunch of sweet potatoes then getting home to realize that we already have a pile in the pantry? I'm pretty good at that. Figuring out how to use that third leek, the one that always seems to come in the bunch?
- [making mac & cheese even kid-friendlier, definitely healthier](https://foodlets.com/2013/05/17/making-mac-cheese-even-kid-friendlier-definitely-healthier/) - MY GOAL IS REAL FOOD. Less boxes, more produce. But all of this only matters if someone's willing to eat it. And before all the "mmms" and "Thanks Mom"-ing can begin, some brave soul must be willing to make it. This is where I (try to) come in. With the mind of a mad scientist
- [no-cook dinner: antipasto with ham, cheese, breadsticks, melon and more...](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/10/no-cook-dinner-antipasto-night-with-salami-cheese-breadsticks-melon-and-more/) - IT'S BEEN OVER 90 DEGREES EVERY DAY in Rome for weeks. This is a normal summer in Italy but that doesn't mean we're not melting! Particularly those of us from the Pacific Northwest where it simply doesn't do this. Ever. My Floridian husband, however, is soaking up the sun, humidity and all the heat for
- [a Halloween party menu plus healthier Halloween cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/2011/10/31/a-halloween-party-menu-plus-healthier-halloween-cupakes/) - DESPERATE FOR A LITTLE TRICK-OR-TREATING, we hosted our own Halloween party for ex-pats this weekend. The result: 13 kids, 15 adults and countless cupcakes. Costumes for the Mathews crew included one garden gnome (and if you've never heard a 2-year old try to say "gnome" I highly recommend it) and one flower. Monster Mash played
- [turkey & cheese roll-ups, an easy lunch or snack idea](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/20/easy-lunch-or-snack-idea-meat-and-cheese-rollups/) - PHOEBE IS A MEAT LOVER. I'm not sure why but she even gets excited about saying the word, "meat!" Anyway, I'm using this to my advantage these days--and enjoying easy lunches. Here's today's idea: Roll a slice of fresh turkey from the deli around a little rectangle of cheese. Try to use organic and experiment
- [no-sugar strawberry apple fruit roll-ups (a homemade fruit leather recipe)](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/24/no-sugar-strawberry-fruit-roll-ups/) - THERE WAS A TIME WHEN PHOEBE'S FAVORITE food was a "bar". Any bar, as long as it came in a crinkly package with neat edges. I don't have a small factory set up in my kitchen (though sometimes it feels that way), so when it comes to competing with packaged snacks my strategy is this:
- [more parenting dispatches from me: check out my new column on BabyZone.com](https://foodlets.com/2013/07/30/more-parenting-dispatches-from-me-check-out-my-new-column-on-babyzone-com/) - JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT WE'D GIVEN UP and become Lunchables converts, I'm back to Foodlets at last. It's been very busy in our little corner of North Carolina. We moved to our new, and permanent, house (more on this later)! We took trips (more later) and we even hosted two family visits already (ditto). And
- [weekly roundup: Ideas, news and inspiration about cooking for kids everywhere](https://foodlets.com/2013/08/09/weekly-roundup-ideas-news-and-inspiration-about-cooking-for-kids/) - The Jamie Oliver Foundation has declared Oct. 24, 2013 FOOD DAY. Sign up now to support their efforts to bring food education to schools across the nation. What a great week! Here's what else happened... Childhood obesity is falling (ever so slightly) in several cities (NY Times) Kids' menus used to include lamb chops: A
- [3 low-sugar pudding ideas for kids](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/01/3-low-sugar-pudding-ideas-for-kids/) - PUDDING, I'VE LEARNED, CAN MEAN MANY THINGS. Especially when you're cooking low-sugar stuff for kids. Here are three recipes we've tried: one's beloved, another so-so and one big ol' miss. Our most popular "pudding" is actually a no-cook, no sugar affair: Coconut Milk & Chia Seed Pudding. It's flavored with honey or maple syrup and
- [Michael Pollan's vinegar chicken made easier and ALMOST kid-friendly](https://foodlets.com/2013/06/17/michael-pollans-vinegar-chicken-made-easier/) - PROJECT "CLEAN OUT THE PANTRY" is officially underway! That's right. We are finally, finally, at long last and just in time, moving into our new house. Which is good because I was going to pack up anyway, headed straight for the loony bin. Six months of temporary living among too many moving boxes and too
- [Lower-sugar, lower-fat golden yam brownies (An Allrecipes.com makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/25/lower-sugar-lower-fat-golden-yam-brownies-an-allrecipes-com-makeover/) - THIS REQUEST CAME IN FROM ALASKA. Tricia, who is a mom to three boys living waaay up north, sent me a link via Facebook to these decadent treats with a healthy sounding name, Golden Yam Brownies on Allrecipes. She asked if I could do a healthier makeover. "My family LOVES it but it's loaded with
- [Double chocolate zucchini muffins, a Muffin Madness contender](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/27/double-chocolate-zucchini-muffins-a-muffin-madness-contender/) - THERE'S A MUFFIN BRACKET GOING ON. It's between Easy Peasy Organic's sweet potato muffins and these double chocolate zucchini muffins from Mom's Kitchen Handbook. Since we've already started hearing from you about the sweet potato muffins, we tried baking the zucchini first. After patiently waiting driving me crazy while the muffins baked and cooled off,
- [Fresh ginger cake, a David Lebovitz recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/08/freshginger-cake-a-delicious-david-lebovitz-recipe-makeover/) - I MAY HAVE ACCIDENTALLY EATEN a whole cake this weekend. Yes, Phoebe helped and so did Estelle but really, it was my determination that got it done. Our newest makeover is based on a recipe from David Lebovitz's book, "Ready for Dessert", one that may be his most beloved. "This is the most often requested
- [Better-for-you Valentine's Day cupcakes from a mix (chickpea variation)](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/14/better-for-you-valentines-day-cupcakes-from-a-mix/) - YOU DON'T EAT THEM EVERY DAY so why mess with a good thing? Because in our house we're dealing with babies. And toddlers. And neither one is a pretty sight in the company of too much sugar. Actually, Estelle hasn't really had sugar yet and Phoebe talks a good game but after a few bites
- [Linguine with mushroom bacon sauce, a pasta recipe from "American Grown" by Michelle Obama](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/26/linguine-with-mushroom-bacon-sauce-from-american-grown-by-michelle-obama/) - WHEN THEY SERVE PASTA AT THE WHITE HOUSE, this is it. And also, I'd like to come come over next time they do. But for now I'll have to settle for the most delicious sounding recipe for linguine that I've seen since we left Italy. In this excerpt from Michelle Obama's book, "American Grown", you'll
- [Surprisingly successful toddler lunch blend: baby eggs Florentine](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/17/surprisingly-successful-toddler-lunch-blend/) - hard-boiled egg (yolk only) + steamed and pureed spinach + whole wheat cereal + freshly grated Parmesan cheese = Baby Eggs Florentine What’s your most surprisingly successful lunch recipe?
- [Healthy chocolate-zucchini muffins for kids (a Paula Deen zucchini bread makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/20/paula-deens-zucchini-bread-becomes-healthier-zucchini-chocolate-muffins-a-paula-deen-recipe-makeover/) - STOP EVERYTHING. THESE ARE THE BEST MUFFINS you'll ever make. And don't tell Ina Garten because I've strayed again and updated another Paula Deen recipe for this one. Right now Paula's zucchini bread is the most popular thing on the Food Network website; and my remake of her pumpkin cake (now pumpkin spice mini-muffins) is
- [Zucchini mini-muffins with dried cranberries](https://foodlets.com/2011/08/16/zucchini-mini-muffins/) - LET IT BE SAID THAT COOKING WITH FOUR KIDS under three is crazy ill advised. A fact, now burned clearly into my brain, was somehow unknown when I went into this project last week. A fellow ex-pat brought her toddler and baby over for some pint-sized baking at my suggestion. Along with my own toddler
- [Homemade chicken strips](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/15/homemade-chicken-strips/) - PICNIC FOOD DOESN'T GET better than this. I'll just fess up immediately though: this pan-fried technique is more involved than the baked chicken nuggets we made a while ago. There's oil popping and smoke billowing all over the place. Or maybe that's just me. But this is for sure: the color is much darker, and
- [We have a Muffin Madness 2013 winner! The muffin recipe of the year is...](https://foodlets.com/2013/04/03/foodlets-first-recipe-contest-has-winner-the-muffin-recipe-of-the-year-is/) - SO MANY DELICIOUS CHOICES, so few baking opportunities during nap time. Over the last few weeks, we tried something new in hopes of finding something new. New muffin recipes to be exact and with this six-pack we hit the jackpot. I called it Muffin Madness and this is a muffin bracket. It's a nod to
- [Foodlets Friday: A week's worth of recipes & recaps](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/22/7971/) - THIS IS A NEW IDEA, so let's see how it goes. At the end of the week, we'll recap what's happening right here on Foodlets and way beyond. ON FOODLETS The Michelle Obama book giveaway, American Grown, is on! You have 5+ ways to enter to win one of two free copies Muffin Madness, our
- [Easy roasted asparagus](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/07/easy-roasted-asparagus/) - IF ONLY EVERY DISH WAS SO EASY. To prepare roasted asparagus, you need a baking pan, extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper and asparagus. Balsamic vinegar is optional, a hot oven is not. The great thing about roasted veggies is how sweet they become. And if we know anything about the tender palettes of tiny
- [Sweet potato spice muffins](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/21/sweet-potato-spice-muffins/) - THESE MUFFINS ARE LIKE the Energizer Bunny...they just keep going. No matter what I put in them. And we have the recently-much-discussed Paula Deen to thank for it. Her original pumpkin bar recipe was easily adapted for the foodlets here but since canned pumpkin is harder to find than boot-cut jeans in Rome, I've also
- [Homemade chicken noodle soup with extra veggies (plus baby food version)](https://foodlets.com/2011/10/14/homemade-chicken-noodle-soup-with-extra-veggies-includes-baby-food-version/) - WE HAVE SOME PROBLEMS AROUND HERE. Two nasty little colds were followed by one awful case of pink eye and own throat-scratching, coughing in the middle of the night cold. A trifecta of germs! Making matters worse, our babysitter is MIA with a stomach virus all her own. That said, a little (maybe a lot
- [Sauteed carrots with citrus butter](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/08/sauteed-carrots-with-citrus-butter/) - I'M NOT GOING TO LIE. The kids don't like carrots and these are no exception. But because I'm crazy determined to keep offering healthy foods in various ways, over and over until their tastes come around, this is another idea. The good news is, Paul and I think they're delicious. These are an easier version
- [Sauteed cabbage](https://foodlets.com/2013/03/06/sauteed-cabbage/) - I'VE EATEN CABBAGE QUITE A FEW TIMES, BUT ENJOYED IT EXACTLY TWICE. The first delicious cabbage I ate was many years ago when a friend with Irish roots (and her own Grandma Curley, just like I had) spent a full Saturday making "Boiled Dinner" for St. Patrick's Day. Despite my own fairly Irish roots, I'd
- [How a little pig changed our family's dinner dynamic](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/21/dinner-with-olivia-how-a-pig-changed-our-familys-dinner-dynamic/) - PROPAGANDA? LOVE IT. At least where the kids' health is concerned. That's why I'm such a fan of books with a smart food theme. I wrote about 5 of our favorites a while ago, but there's another one on the bookshelf these days. Dinner With Olivia is surprisingly helpful because it's not really about nutrition--it's
- [How to roast beets](https://foodlets.com/2013/02/19/how-to-roast-beets/) - THESE WORK IN SO MANY WAYS. On salad, as salad, warm from the oven, pureed for baby food (or as a secret good-for-you ingredient for decadent brownies!). I'm a beet lover, Phoebe is hit or miss with these purple beauties and everyone else is still in the not-quite-sold stage. They're so good though, and so
- [Chicken with plum sauce and roasted vegetables](https://foodlets.com/2011/09/26/chicken-with-plum-sauce-and-roasted-vegetables/) - IT'S THE TAIL END OF PLUM SEASON IN ROME. With so many to eat in so little time (namely, before a fruit fly colony invades our kitchen) plums got upgraded from snack item to dessert to dinner. These sweet little beauties are a great source of fiber plus vitamins C, A and K. To be
- [Where's the food? My first trip to an American grocery store as a mom](https://foodlets.com/2013/01/23/wheres-the-food-my-first-trip-back-to-an-american-grocery-store-as-a-mom/) - BEFORE WE LEFT ROME, I got together with a friend of mine who had just returned from a summer spent in Brooklyn. "Brace yourself," she told me as we walked up the steps of Villa Borghese. "It's overwhelming." She wasn't talking about her family's temporary transition back to the States (which can be intense, even
- [Big, fat, international move in progress...](https://foodlets.com/2012/12/04/big-fat-international-move-in-progress/) - If you're wondering whether I've run out of ideas or simply surrendered to chicken nuggets, fear not! The good fight wages on but we're in the process of moving from Italy to the US--as a new-ish family of 5--and boy is it taking a long time to get settled. Once we're past the living-out-of-suitcases stage,
- [Oatmeal applesauce mini-muffins](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/17/oatmeal-applesauce-mini-muffins/) - THIS IS A NEW ONE. Phoebe and Estelle like something that I'm just not that into. Because we still had a few cups of delicious apple butter at our disposal, Phoebe and I whipped up some muffins yesterday and I'll tell you this, the munchkins love them. For me it's a texture thing; I was
- [Frittata with spinach, pancetta & ricotta (a Barefoot Contessa makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2012/10/09/spinach-pancetta-ricotta-frittata-a-barefoot-contessa-makeover/) - MY BIG INDULGENCE IN ITALY, other than one trip to the Gucci outlet and one million bowls of gelato (which was probably more expensive in the long run!), has been an international subscription to the Food Network magazine. I've definitely learned a lot from Italians when it comes to food, family and the combination of
- [5 foods toddlers naturally love](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/18/5-foods-toddlers-naturally-love/) - If you're looking for a food without the fight, try one of these...and enjoy the peace. 1. Raisins. 2. Cheese. 3. Pasta. 4. Bananas. 5. Corn on the cob. Even with six teeth. And even if it's hot. [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_94Ndpn84cA&fs=1&hl=en_US] And please share -- what works every time at your place?
- [Surprisingly sophisticated foods babies love](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/17/surprisingly-sophisticated-foods-babies-love/) - IF I'D ACTUALLY TRIED THEM, I certainly didn’t like any of these foods until my mid-twenties. At 9 months, Phoebe has had-- and enjoyed--all of them. Avocado Kiwi Quinoa Mango Papaya Tofu Lentils Freshly grated Parmesan cheese Extra virgin olive oil Cooked parsley So far, the force is with us though I hear it gets
- [Individual plum crisps (a Barefoot Contessa recipe makeover)](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/12/individual-plum-crisps-a-barefoot-contessa-recipe-makeover/) - WE'VE DONE SOMETHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. Last summer a friend appeared on our door, bag in hand overflowing with juicy purple plums. We combined them with a few berries for a family-style dessert at a friend's summer rental. This time we got our own plums and this time they were yellow. And this time, I
- [Apple cream cheese mini-muffins](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/09/apple-cream-cheese-mini-muffins/) - FINALLY, A BAKED GOOD that Phoebe likes! And not a moment too soon. We started a play group this week and I'd been told ahead of time to bring a "healthy snack". I wasn't sure how the group would go but I knew this for sure: the last thing we needed was a lousy snack
- [Apple cake pops for Teacher Appreciation Day](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/09/apple-cake-pops-for-teacher-appreciation-day/) - TALK ABOUT MAKING FOOD FUN! My friend Amber emailed these amazing cake pops that she made for Teacher Appreciation Day. Besides being so cute I can hardly stand it, they're filled with...OREO truffles. The original idea was inspired by Raising Memories, and the cake pop part is simple: Grind up a bag of Oreos and
- [Do we have to eat genetically modified food?](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/29/do-we-have-to-eat-genetically-modified-food/) - SPEECHLESS. This is how I'd like to end today's post but I don't want to appear overly dramatic lest the message be diluted. Have you ever wondered, why so many people are allergic to peanuts now? And milk? And corn? According to this expert, it's because those items aren't "real food" anymore. Not always. Thanks
- [Fresh peach & cinnamon muffins](https://foodlets.com/2012/09/03/fresh-peach-cinnamon-muffins/) - THERE'S NO BETTER TIME FOR PEACHES than the last weeks of warm weather. (Ditto for tomatoes!) Inspired by all the juicy looking fruit overflowing on our supermarket shelves, Phoebe and I set out to make a new muffin: peach spice muffins. Meanwhile we have an extra little helper in the kitchen these days. (Estelle was
- [Barefoot Contessa Makeover: Oatmeal raisin scones](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/31/oatmeal-raisin-scones/) - WE'RE ON AN OATMEAL KICK HERE IN ROME. The temperatures are cooling off and Phoebe has recently discovered dried cranberries which means oatmeal every morning, naturally. We're just doing the quick oats which cook in one minute...except they don't. It takes several minutes to boil the water, then another couple to cook the oats. I'm
- [Barefoot Contessa Makeover: Corn muffins with jam filling](https://foodlets.com/2010/11/17/corn-muffins-with-jam-filling/) - ANOTHER WEEK, ANOTHER PLAYGROUP, ANOTHER BAKED GOOD. This time we tried something even more healthy...but it didn't start that way. Barefoot's corn muffins promise to be moist and delicious, which is easy to believe when you consider the half pound of butter called for in the original recipe. That won't work for us so we
- [Strawberry oatmeal breakfast cookies](https://foodlets.com/2011/07/07/strawberry-oatmeal-breakfast-cookies/) - JAM IS A POPULAR ITEM at our place. Especially strawberry, especially in the morning. So when I saw a recipe for Strawberry Vanilla Breakfast Cookies in my Sneaky Chef to the Rescue cookbook, I jumped at the chance. So did Phoebe. As the original recipe calls for, we started with fresh strawberries. But instead of
- [How to make a brownie mix healthier in seconds](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/04/easy-healthier-brownies-from-a-mix/) - IF YOU'VE GOT A BUSY HOLIDAY SCHEDULE this one's for you. This weekend we had a Christmas party for the playgroup that Phoebe used to attend (and love). For the fun of seeing old friends plus 30 others who just speak English, we baked up four dozen mini brownies and headed out. On the bus,
- [Spice muffins with cream cheese frosting...and a secret ingredient](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/15/spice-muffins-with-cream-cheese-frosting-and-a-secret-ingredient/) - THESE MUFFINS STARTED OUT AS Pumpkin Bars from Paula Deen. In their second life they became a healthier version of pumpkin mini-muffins. Now they're carrot muffins. And they're delicious. Canned pumpkin is virtually non-existent in Rome and I'm not sure which Italian variety of zucca would work well enough to go through the cooking and
- [Healthier chocolate chip cookies](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/03/healthier-chocolate-chip-cookies/) - IT WASN'T THE COOKIES' FAULT. After whipping up a batch of The Sneaky Chef's "Unbelievable Chocolate Chip Cookies" (pictured above) and another batch of "Chocolate Chip Cookies" from Weelicious, the whole family came down with the flu. Before things took a turn for the worse, we had just enough time to come up with this
- [Fresh strawberry muffins](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/22/fresh-strawberry-muffins/) - "YAY, THESE ARE GIANT MUFFINS!" That's the refrain from the breakfast table in Rome these days. This weekend Phoebe and I remade a recipe from the Oprah magazine, for baked strawberry-buttermilk doughnuts. Our version is also baked, also full of strawberries but served in the shape of flowers. We did our usual updates, omitting some
- [Baked oatmeal with balsamic strawberries](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/07/baked-oatmeal-with-balsamic-strawberries/) - OATMEAL WILL NEVER BE THE SAME. Now that I've discovered a baked recipe that works for the small and smallest members of our household (aka with strawberries and without), I may never stand over a bubbling pot of oatmeal again. Or at least I'll take a nice break from it. Again, a tip from the
- [Strawberry mini muffins](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/21/strawberry-mini-muffins/) - WE CAN'T GET ENOUGH fresh strawberries! Hoping to soak up the best of the season, we're experimenting with new recipes all the time. This one was quite tasty--and thanks to the magical combo of a freezer and a zip-top bag, we're still enjoying them a week later. Well, those of us who aren't cutting FIVE
- [Scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, really](https://foodlets.com/2011/08/10/scrambled-eggs-with-smoked-salmon-really/) - I DIDN'T MAKE IT FOR PHOEBE. This was a parallel lunch last week; I made her some nice fluffy eggs with cheese and planned to top mine with smoked salmon, a decadent treat I got hooked on during my NYC days. I also cut up some cherry tomatoes for her, as usual, just to add
- [Green eggs and ham](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/20/green-eggs-and-ham/) - YOU KNOW HOW TODDLERS BECOME OBSESSED with something and want it over and over? We've been in a Green Eggs & Ham bedtime rut routine for a while now and I'll tell you what. It's not awesome. But inspired by Phoebe's unwavering passion (Is there anything that I like this much?), combined with a little
- [Egg, spinach & ham breakfast cups--flower style](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/24/egg-spinach-ham-breakfast-cups-flower-style/) - I FINALLY FOUND A USE FOR THESE SILICONE FLOWER molds. Because I nearly threw them away. Or considered using them as Popsicle molds later this summer. Don't you hate them? Ugh. Be it brownies, cupcakes or muffins, every time I've made something in these Wilton molds, the dough refuses to come out entirely. And honestly,
- [Banana oat muffins](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/28/banana-oat-muffins/) - WE WERE GOING ON VACATION just as the first opportunity to volunteer at our church came my way. We go to Rome Baptist Church here in Italy not because we're necessarily Baptists (though my husband grew up in the Baptist church) but because the sermon is in English. And they're nice folks. Anyway, it seems
- [Chicken and peach kabobs](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/09/chicken-and-peach-kabobs/) - SO MANY FAILURES, SO LITTLE TIME. Since our pork and pineapple version was so tasty, I thought this was a natural spin-off. And it might have been, but I'd need to do things differently. Estelle actually ate quite a bit but Phoebe was having none of it and I couldn't blame her. The chicken needed
- [Foodlets on Care.com](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/24/foodlets-on-care-com/) - OUR GIRLS MAY BE LITTLE, but we know about packing healthy foods for lunch away from home--and we were thrilled to share a few ideas with Kate Hanley in her article 7 Ideas for Easy - And Healthy - School Lunches on Care.com. There are several smart ideas from sites that I'm dying to check
- [Foodlets on Food Network blog, Healthy Eats](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/08/foodlets-on-food-network-blog-healthy-eats/) - AS I SAID ON FACEBOOK LAST WEEK, we're ONE step closer to the dream with this post--Food Network + Foodlets (in any conceivable way, but preferably involving my Barefoot Contessa)--with many, many more to go! In the meantime, we're thrilled to be featured and hope to do it again sometime. Read the lovely piece from
- [Peanut butter dip with fresh apples...to go!](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/10/peanut-butter-dip-with-fresh-apples/) - Today I'm honored to present a guest post from an extraordinary baker, Hani of Haniela's Food & Photography. Snack time has never looked so good! Hello, my name is Hani, I’m an editor of Haniela’s and today I’m visiting Foodlets and will be sharing a really delicious recipe with you. Peanut Butter Dip with Fresh
- [Peanut butter chocolate chip bacon cookies](https://foodlets.com/2011/07/05/chocolate-chip-bacon-cookies/) - YES, BACON. Thanks to an international subscription to The Food Network magazine, Paul was crunching his way through a dozen over-sized chocolate chip cookies tonight. But these weren't just run of the mill birthday cookies. In addition to your basic flour, brown sugar, eggs and whatnot, these guy-friendly treats included peanut butter, bacon, a dash
- [Heart-shaped carrots and zucchini](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/13/heart-shaped-carrots-and-zucchini/) - CUTE, RIGHT? Didn't matter. I could whittle these carrots into the shape of Phoebe's smiling face and it wouldn't make a difference. She doesn't like carrots. Or zucchini. And the only thing that coaxed her into eating one of each (as is our family rule at dinner time) was the promise of "cake" afterward. But
- [Baked risotto with sausage, barley & fresh green beans](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/23/baked-risotto-with-sausage-green-beans/) - AS THREATENED PROMISED, baked risotto has made its way into our weekly repertoire and here's why: the kids love it! Plus, a baked version of this traditional Italian dish is easy to make before they even get home from nursery school. Sitting on the stove, it's ready to be warmed again at dinner time. No
- [Oven roasted carrots](https://foodlets.com/2012/08/02/oven-roasted-carrots/) - WE'RE ON A CARROT KICK these days and since it seems you can never go wrong with roasting veggies, I thought I'd try it out. And...it's true. Roasted [fill in the blank] is always good. Carrots included. Like all other roasted veggies (at least those covered on this bleary-eyed busy mom's beat), this is such
- [Sausage & sour cream pasta with peas...a Stroganoff-ish dinner idea](https://foodlets.com/2012/07/25/sausage-sour-cream-pasta-with-peas-a-stroganoff-ish-dinner-idea/) - We're on "vacation" this week, on the southern coast of Italy. It's our first trip with all three rascals so I'm out of the kitchen. So far, I'd say everything is gorgeous and exhausting, sometimes both at once. Meanwhile, I saved up a couple of fresh ideas to post while we're gone. Be back soon...trust
- [Mashed potatoes with pork gravy](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/20/mashed-potatoes-with-pork-gravy/) - OLD SCHOOL AND PERFECT for cold weather, I made a variation of Shepard's pie this week with steamed broccoli on the side. I also learned something in the process: toddlers are excellent at mashing potatoes. Destroying something with no regard for making a mess along the way? Why didn't I think of this earlier? Actually,
- [Baked spaghetti with sausage and beans](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/06/baked-spaghetti-with-sausage-and-beans/) - SOMETHING WEIRD IS HAPPENING in Rome. It's snowing. And not just a little bit; we've got 6 to 8 inches of the fluffly stuff outside our door. This kind of weather calls for comfort food, pronto. I'm trying to fight the urge to throw my slow cooker off our 5th story terrace master a few
- [Sausage rolls...pigs in a blanket all grown up](https://foodlets.com/2012/05/31/sausage-rolls-pigs-in-a-blanket-all-grown-up/) - I MAKE THESE EVERY TIME I HAVE A PARTY. Everyone loves them. So, when I saw Jamie Oliver make something similar for his family, I broke out one of my favorite Barefoot Contessa recipes. Trying to make it a little healthier, this is sausage with puff pastry after all, I added protein-rich white beans that
- [5 celebrity chef recipe makeovers](https://foodlets.com/2012/06/20/5-celebrity-chef-recipe-makeovers/) - I love them, deeply I do, but these ladies' recipes are just too rich. And I mean this in both senses of the word. There's Paula Deen, whose battle with diabetes has become very public and at least a little controversial when paired with an estimated net worth of $14 million. And also my beloved
- [Carmelized onion dip for Father's Day](https://foodlets.com/2012/06/17/carmelized-onion-dip-for-fathers-day/) - IT'S FATHER'S DAY and though he doesn't have much of a sweet tooth, I can think of one treat that will definitely please Paul...onion dip. In fact, he loves it so much that every time someone comes to visit from the US, this is his big request. Lipton's Onion Soup Mix,please. They don't even sell
- [The newest Foodlet has arrived...welcome George!](https://foodlets.com/2012/06/13/the-newest-foodlet-has-arrived-welcome-george/) - WE'RE NOT COOKING a lot this week, but we'll be back in the kitchen soon! Until then, it's serious snuggle time. For more photos of baby George and his sisters, check out our family blog about life with the little guys in Italy: The Rome Report.
- [Toddler-friendly Asian noodles with vegetables](https://foodlets.com/2011/11/05/toddler-friendly-asian-noodles-with-vegetables/) - IF I'VE LEARNED ONE THING SO FAR, it's this: figure out what works and do more of it. We're all about spin-offs here, and this dinner is the Laverne & Shirley of pasta. We know Phoebe devours spaghetti with red sauce, white sauce, cheese, or really any topping. Today's challenge: introducing Asian flavors. It sounds
- [Balsamic vinegar chicken sandwiches](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/24/balsamic-vinegar-chicken-sandwiches/) - PHOEBE'S NOT EATING ANYTHING with "salad" on top, but minus the offensive greens she tucked into one of these last night with gusto. Thanks to *Jessica Seinfeld's sneaky trick, this tangy sauce includes freshly steamed and pureed broccoli, which doubled as a baby food side dish for Estelle. Paired with our new family favorite, roasted
- [Italian style pasta & cheese cups](https://foodlets.com/2011/07/27/italian-style-pasta-cheese-cups/) - A PORTABLE LUNCH DOESN'T GET MUCH BETTER than this. With a play date coming up, Phoebe and I set out to make lunch for her and a play pal but there were strings attached. It had to withstand a trip across Rome via stroller. That's where this new recipe came in. Continuing on my Sneaky
- [Why are we feeding our kids so much junk? ](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/04/why-are-we-feeding-our-kids-so-much-junk-11-kid-friendly-recipes-to-try-now/) - HERE'S A NEWS FLASH recently reported by USA Today: kids are eating too much sugar. Your kids, my kids and there are pretty serious consequences. (And let's not even talk about my own sweet tooth. Except we should, more on that in a minute.) This isn't a discussion about blame, though. I have two little
- [Turkey sausage meatballs and easy pasta with peas](https://foodlets.com/2012/04/03/turkey-sausage-meatballs-and-easy-pasta-with-peas/) - WE'VE JUST RETURNED FROM A THREE-WEEK TRIP to the US where we plan to relocate at the end of 2012. North Carolina looks like our future destination but first all things related to jobs, houses, schools and the other million details that make a life must align. (Wish us luck!) In the meantime, I've stocked
- [10 most pinned posts](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/28/10-most-pinned-posts/) - I LOVE PINTEREST. Posting (and keeping track of) amazing ideas from all over the web has long been a dream/idea of mine, one that I pestered my technically savvy coworkers at HGTV to produce for a long time. At last, the super smarties at Pinterest have made it happen (and you're not limited to new
- [Roasted Brussels sprouts](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/26/roasted-brussels-sprouts/) - IF PHOEBE WALKED IN AND SAID, "Mama, I'm feeling really beat. I'm sorry for being cranky lately and think I should go to bed a little early tonight", I couldn't be more surprised than I was when she specifically ASKED for Brussels sprouts then actually ate them. The fact that Estelle also ate more of
- [Broccoli & cheese pasta cups](https://foodlets.com/2011/09/30/brocolli-and-cheese-pasta-cups-2/) - WE TRIED IT AGAIN. The pasta cups are back and this time, just as I threatenedpromised, I added broccoli and ricotta cheese, trying for a bit of a quiche flavor. Speaking of flavor, I also added herbs, fresh parsley and basil. I thought they'd look festive and pack a bit of punch too. Also, the
- [Stovetop broccoli & chicken with rice](https://foodlets.com/2012/03/20/stovetop-broccoli-chicken-with-rice/) - THIS WAS DOOMED FROM THE START. Prominently featuring rice, as seen in the current What Doesn't Work Now list, it never stood a chance. But be that as it may, I'm a glutton for punishment committed to presenting a variety of food, including things they don't like. Or think they don't like. (Ironic that "Green
- [Ina Garten's Roasted tomato basil soup](https://foodlets.com/2010/11/15/roasted-tomato-basil-soup/) - I'VE MADE IT BEFORE BUT THIS TIME, I ADDED A LITTLE MORE OOMPH. By now you know that I love my Barefoot Contessa. But you also might be aware of her delicious yet wildly fattening food, a dilemma for someone who is already 14 pounds heavier than usual, also trying to keep a 17-month old
- [Ina Garten's Lentil soup with sausage](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/24/lentil-soup-with-sausage/) - WE LOVED IT, PHOEBE DIDN'T. Such is life, especially when you've got a toddler. This lentil soup, originally inspired by the Barefoot Contessa, is a favorite for Paul and me but this time I added a couple of special ingredients: lentils that Paul got from the Salone Del Gusto food festival plus fresh turkey sausage.
- [Barefoot Contessa Makeover: Lemon chicken with pesto potato salad](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/08/lemon-chicken-with-pesto-potato-salad/) - WE’VE HAD A BREAKTHROUGH in the potato department. Never a fan of them, Phoebe actually said, “I ont aunt tatoes” when I was trying to play up tonight’s dinner—a tough task considering that we were swimming (aka, the most fun activity ever) just before the potato conversation. But potatoes it was. Only I added a
- [Rotisserie style roast chicken from Gwyneth Paltrow](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/25/rotisserie-style-roast-chicken-from-gwyneth-paltrow/) - IT DIDN'T START WELL. First of all the book took ages to arrive, three weeks after I ordered it from the usually trusty Amazon UK. Then there was the matter of buying a whole chicken. I've had poultry trouble before. But today I went to the butcher's counter directly. Go to the source, I said.
- [Fudgy chocolate brownies from Gwyneth Paltrow](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/30/fudgy-chocolate-brownies-from-gwyneth-paltrow/) - CAKES! THIS IS EASILY Phoebe's favorite food. Especially chocolate. Especially when she gets to help make them. So the fudgy chocolate brownies from "My Father's Daughter" by Gwyneth Paltrow were a hit before they were even baked. And after. But in full disclosure, let me say this. We didn't have all the ingredients. Not in
- [Foodlets on She Knows.com](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/16/foodlets-on-she-knows-com/) - FAMILIES AROUND THE WORLD, that's the name of the feature we're part of on She Knows.com, the website voted #1 for women based in Arizona. Our story is aptly titled, "Raising three kids under three in Italy", and just about sums it up, right? Thanks Katie Kavulla! READ THE FULL ARTICLE ON SHE KNOWS >>
- [Are fish sticks the end of everything?](https://foodlets.com/2010/09/16/are-fish-sticks-the-end-of-everything/) - NEW YORK TIMES WRITER Susan Dominus hit a hot spot last week...the children's menu. With higher prices, not to mention stress levels, I can see how a fast and easy alternative to the regular restaurant menu was born but wonder if it's a shortcut not worth taking. And I'm not the only one. At last
- [Foodlets on Epicurious](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/03/foodlets-on-epicurious/) - WOW! AND YAY! Foodlets is featured on The Epi-Log in my very own Q&A interview. This blog appears on Conde Nast's notable food site, Epicurious. I'm especially thrilled to see our crazy humble ideas there because a. It's Epicurious and b. I love Conde Nast; my first job was at Bride's Magazine in New York
- [New Foodlets column on Yahoo! Shine](https://foodlets.com/2012/02/02/new-foodlets-column-on-yahoo-shine/) - WE'RE DOUBLING UP! The Cooking for Kids (And Other Crazy Ideas) column will now be syndicated on Yahoo! Shine, in addition to The Huffington Post. You can always find all of my posts at the Foodlets page, where new posts will be published every other week. And from time to time, my posts will be
- [Banana muffins with millet](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/16/banana-muffins-with-millet/) - YES, MILLET. THIS GOOD-FOR-YOU GRAIN is not only a source of protein but also heart-healthy magnesium and niacin. Plus it and adds a mega-dose of fiber to unsuspecting muffins like these. A regular food source in Ethiopia, it's uncommon in the US (except for bird seed!) and usually found in health food stores. We love
- [No-fry French fries from Gwyneth Paltrow](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/26/no-fry-french-fries-from-gwyneth-paltrow/) - CAN I PLEASE HAVE MORE POTATOES? These are words I like to hear. Especially when the alternatives are, "Her touching me!" or the newest installment in sass, "I don't care". Arms folded. None of that last night though, which was a welcome blessing because Paul worked a little later than usual, leaving me with the
- [Babble's Top 100 Mom Blogs: Vote for Foodlets! ](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/19/babbles-top-100-mom-blogs-vote-for-foodlets/) - INCH, INCH, INCH. We're working our way up through the list of nominees for Babble's Top 100 Mom Blogs and need your help! Visit our entry page and click the Facebook "Like" to vote for Foodlets. As of this posting, we're at number 16 but number 1 would be so much better! To show my
- [New column on Huffington Post: Cooking for Kids (and Other Crazy Ideas)](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/17/new-column-on-huffington-post-cooking-for-kids-and-other-crazy-ideas/) - HERE WE GO! This month I started a column on The Huffington Post called Cooking for Kids (and Other Crazy Ideas). Here I'll write about, what else, cooking for kids. The ups, the downs, the very dirty floor. Plus I'll tackle valtrex price trends and news stories as they come up. I've written two
- [Carroty macaroni & cheese (an excerpt from A Way to Garden)](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/16/carrot-y-macaroni-cheese-an-excerpt-from-a-way-to-garden/) - A GREAT IDEA FROM A GREAT BLOG. I'll take it! This better-for-you mac & cheese recipe comes from Melissa Clark's book, "Cook This Now", by way of the best gardening blog around, A Way to Garden. An excerpt from Margret's masterful gardening site introduces one of my favorite makeover ideas for comfort food: MELISSA CLARK
- [Barefoot Contessa Makeover: Cranberry wheat germ muffins](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/25/cranberry-wheat-germ-muffins/) - THEY'RE SO MUCH BETTER THAN THEY SOUND, REALLY. And Phoebe loves them. Every morning this week I'd ask, "do you want a muffin?" She'd nod as emphatically as someone can without being hauled off to an institution, start saying "mmm, mmm, mmm" and jamming her finger into her empty plate so hard I thought it
- [Roasted fish with artichokes, tomatoes and olives](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/19/roasted-fish-with-artichokes-tomatoes-and-olives/) - I NEED A NEW CATEGORY, called Partial Failures. That's how I'd describe this dish but it's not what you think. Phoebe is a sworn rice hater and carefully molding her portion of wild rice into the shape of a flower (using a cookie cutter and allowing it to set in the fridge overnight) made absolutely
- [Salmon-vegetable chowder](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/21/salmon-vegetable-chowder/) - IN TIME TO GIVE IT A TEST RUN, we're considering this salmon-vegetable chowder from The Food Network magazine for Christmas Eve dinner. It's packed with veggies and just enough seafood to qualify for the Feast of Seven Fishes, a catholic tradition sometimes observed here in Italy. It's a nod to the Roman Catholic tradition of
- [Ina Garten's white bean and rosemary soup](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/07/white-bean-and-rosemary-soup/) - I LOVE THE BAREFOOT CONTESSA. I just do. I always have, I hope I always will. Her recipes are always delicious, they inspire me to try new things and she just seems fun, doesn't she? With that husky laugh and a button down shirt, there she is making all manner of soups, roasted chicken and
- [Baby food recipe: Roasted zucchini](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/10/baby-food-recipe-roasted-zucchini/) - UNLESS YOU'RE A TODDLER, roasted zucchini is one of the most delicious ways to eat this ubiquitous squash. (If you're a toddler, you will likely only try a bite because you've been promised a sticker and even then will probably spit it out. A sticker can only get you so far...) But if you're a
- [Most Popular Posts of 2011](https://foodlets.com/2012/01/03/most-popular-posts-of-2011/) - IT WAS ALL PARTIES AND SWEETS around here in 2011, just a little healthier. Since re-launching Foodlets this fall, these are the top posts according to page views from readers. Both of them. 10. Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting...and a Secret Ingredient 9. 5 Ways to Make Any Dessert Recipe (a Little) Healthier 8.
- [Baby food recipe: pureed plums](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/08/baby-food-recipe-pureed-plums/) - WINTER FRUIT FOR BABIES isn't always easy to come by, especially if you're looking for seasonal or local produce. Pears yes, bananas no (unless you're enjoying Christmas in the tropics and if you are, we'd like to join immediately). Apples yes, oranges no (unless your baby is over a year or so, according to pediatricians'
- [Baby food recipe: Roasted beets](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/05/baby-food-recipe-roasted-beets/) - NOTHING IS EASIER. Except maybe frozen peas, but let's get back to the beets. Since we've got both a baby and a toddler here, one who is very into "cake", these beets are doing double duty. At 9 months, Estelle eats them, mixed with whole wheat baby cereal but we've also thrown these beets into
- [The Salmon Loaf Standoff](https://foodlets.com/2011/12/06/the-salmon-loaf-standoff/) - I'm delighted to present a guest post from Barbra Austin who is a freelance writer and co-editor of Paris by Mouth; she blogs at barbraaustin.com. *** The Salmon Loaf Standoff of 1983 was the most heated food-related battle ever to take place on Mars avenue, rivaled only by the Mint Brownie Massacre of the same
- [Pureed carrots for babies](https://foodlets.com/2011/10/07/pureed-carrots-for-babies/) - AS MARK BITTMAN ONCE SAID, "IT'S NOT THE BETA CAROTENE, IT'S THE CARROT". There's just something wonderful about this sweet, crunchy and super healthy food. Easy to cook, versatile and best of all, simply to puree for babies. As with most baby food purees, a "recipe" isn't really in order. It's more of an idea
- [Carrot and raisin cookies](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/20/carrot-and-raisin-cookies/) - THESE DIDN'T WORK OUT. Not really anyway and it's my fault. I made them for a friend who's just had a new baby plus the playgroup. I know from experience that when you've recently given birth, you're a. tired b. hungry and c. usually packing a few extra lbs, which calls for smart eating. That's
- [Beyond rice cereal: Top 10 grains to try](https://foodlets.com/2010/11/17/beyond-rice-cereal-top-10-grains-to-try/) - Quinoa Brown rice Millet Whole oats Steel cut oats Bulgur Whole wheat pasta Barley Polenta Whole wheat cereal
- [Take a bite together](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/11/take-a-bite-together/) - Got a stubborn eater? Or a non-eater? Sometimes (and I do mean sometimes) Phoebe is more willing to take a bite of something if I do the same. I'll just say, "let's take a bite together!" and suddenly the idea of a bite just got better. Sometimes.
- [How to get kids to try new vegetables: lemon](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/12/how-to-get-kids-to-try-new-vegetables-lemon/) - IF YOUR KIDS ARE LEMON-LOVERS like Phoebe, this method is brilliant. During a recent lunch in Puglia, we were presented with the "vegetable of the day" which turned out to be grilled zucchini. Unfortunately zucchini is a food that's usually spit out. But not today. The preparation was so simple, yet so tasty, and more
- [Slow food lunch: Chickpeas like I've never seen (or tasted)](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/13/slow-food-lunch-chick-peas-like-ive-never-seen-or-tasted/) - THESE WERE, WELL delicious. On a tip from our trusty Italian guidebook Gambero Rosso, we stopped for lunch at Taverna 58 on our way to Mattinata. The restaurant is associated with the Slow Food movement, which supports restaurants fitting three criteria, as per the website: GOOD a fresh and flavorsome seasonal diet that satisfies the
- [Chicken with pickle sauce](https://foodlets.com/2011/07/20/chicken-with-pickle-sauce/) - THERE'S A SECRET INGREDIENT IN this one. It's even pictured above. The trouble with a mystery like this though, is that if you've read the title of the post it's already given away. Hmpf. Anyway, pickles. It sounds weird at first. (When we told my mom about it on our weekly Skype video call she
- [Quesadillas cubed](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/24/quesadillas-cubed/) - Quick idea for a toddler-friendly lunch or dinner... one whole wheat tortilla cut in half + cheese + turkey, chicken, ground beef or beans put one side of the tortilla in a pan and add the cheese plus protein, making sure to get cheese on top and bottom because it'll be the glue, and add
- [A job for toddlers: tomato separator](https://foodlets.com/2010/11/15/a-job-for-toddlers-tomato-separator/) - THERE'S A NEW COOK IN THE KITCHEN. Phoebe's latest fascination is one close to my heart, and the fire. Every time I set foot in the kitchen she insists on assuming her new position as sous chef, perched atop of a bar stool at the counter. Yes it's uneasy to let her teeter so high
- [Alternate bites](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/05/alternate-bites/) - If we're facing a particularly stubborn moment at the dinner table, sometimes it works to give her a bite of fruit in between each bite of "dinner". The best bites so far have been sliced bananas or strawberries.
- [Back in action](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/09/back-in-action/) - We've got a new addition here! Estelle Marie was born in February, prompting a multi-month break in the action (as it were, though the site has been in "prep" mode ever since I started it last year...) This means another little mouth to feed soon, which means more material. So without any further delays, here
- [Scrambled eggs with spinach, cheese and tomatoes](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/10/scrambled-eggs-with-spinach-cheese-and-tomatoes-2/) - I BLAME INCISORS. Phoebe hasn't eaten dinner two nights in a row now. She's also been a whiny mess all day, cute but whiny. So it came as no surprise when she declined dinner tonight, save for picking out a few diced tomatoes. She actually likes eggs and she likes cheese; she's also a fan
- [Mark Bittman on what's wrong with what we eat](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/12/mark-bittman-on-whats-wrong-with-what-we-eat/) - IF MY CULINARY HERO has long been Barefoot Contessa, this man is her new competition. Only new to me though. Mark Bittman has been a food columnist for decades, currently employed by an outfit called The New York Times. Here, he speaks to something I've been trying not to hear for quite some time: we
- [7 ways to get toddlers to eat more green vegetables](https://foodlets.com/2011/05/23/7-ways-to-get-toddlers-to-eat-more-green-vegetables/) - How about eating some veggies? Right. I'M PRETTY SURE THAT getting kids to eat more veggies has been a struggle since the advent of dinner itself. So when Marie submitted her question--I’d love to get my son Lex (2 years, 2 months) to eat more green foods — broccoli, zucchini, peas, maybe even attempt a
- [Raisins: the constipation solution for toddlers](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/02/raisins-the-constipation-solution-for-toddlers/) - IT AIN'T PRETTY BUT TODAY'S TOPIC is constipation, or rather, how to fix it. As part of my husband Paul's job with the United Nations here in Rome, we have access to the commissary and one of our staples is, as mentioned above, raisins. At first it was the little red paper box that intrigued
- [Let them help cook...and snack along the way](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/09/let-them-help-cook-and-snack-along-the-way/) - HOW TO GET YOUR TODDLER TO EAT MORE VEGGIES: pull up a chair, stool or other propping device and let her help you prepare dinner. Phoebe particularly likes "organizing" her ingredients so I give her a little bowl and a wooden spoon. Things go in the bowl, things go out of the bowl, things fall
- [Grilling: The long, slow road to dinner](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/10/grilling-the-long-slow-road-to-dinner/) - I DIDN'T THINK I LIKED GRILLING going into tonight's dinner and now it's confirmed. I hate it. What's appealing about spending two hours in front of a smokey mess, poking, coaxing, begging the coals to just light already? Wondering when/if the whole thing will ever, ever be hot enough to cook meat without giving everyone
- [Foodlets in the press: Organic Breakfast Ideas for Kids](https://foodlets.com/2011/06/10/foodlets-in-the-press-organic-breakfast-ideas-for-kids/) - WHAT A TREAT to be interviewed by writer and friend Haley Krischer on behalf of Organic Authority. My first piece of "press" is very fun, especially considering that I used to be press myself. Anyway, if you need a few new breakfast ideas for kids...enjoy!
- [Barley raisin breakfast bars](https://foodlets.com/2011/07/25/barley-raisin-breakfast-bars/) - WE NEEDED MORE BREAKFAST options. So, back I went to The Sneaky Chef. Phoebe is a raisin fan and I'm a champion of whole grains which made "Mom's Barley Breakfast Bars" a no-brainer. I followed the recipe this time, with the small exception of adding an extra teaspoon of cinnamon and doubling the raisins.
- [The easiest way to get kids to eat vegetables: Add veggie puree](https://foodlets.com/2011/07/29/easiest-way-to-get-kids-to-eat-vegatable-add-veggie-puree/) - IT'S SUCH AN EASY IDEA, and a good one. Like Mrs. Seinfeld says in her book, Deceptively Delicious, adding veggies on the sly is the simplest way to pack in nutrition without a fight. From brownies to breakfast bars, it's a smart strategy but that's just the beginning. I've started stocking our fridge with a
- [Best baby food freezing trays](https://foodlets.com/2011/09/28/best-baby-food-freezing-trays/) - I LOVE THESE THINGS. We got our first Beaba tray on a trip to Paris before Phoebe was even born, which makes it about a year before the thing was used. But once it was...perfection. Isn't it refreshing when you buy something that actually makes your life easier instead of annoying? A series of baby
- [Anatomy of a failed dinner](https://foodlets.com/2010/10/05/anatomy-of-a-failed-dinner/) - NINE. THIS IS THE NUMBER of items I prepared for Phoebe's dinner tonight. Nine. This includes entrees, side dishes, snacks and even desserts. What it shouldn't be however, is confused with the number of things that she actually ate--and let's not even talk about what she finished. I used to be curious about why parents
- [Mark Bittman's Get Tough Advice for Dinner](https://foodlets.com/2010/09/21/mark-bittmans-get-tough-advice-for-dinner/) - HE'S GOT IDEAS, BUT they don't sound easy. In Mark Bittman's summertime treatise on how to get dinner on the table--and the family around it--he offers five just-do-it tips on Babble.com. I love Mark Bittman, I love a family dinner. I'm in. Particularly when introducing a new food, say, raw carrots, typically goes like this
- [If the only choice is carrots, kids will eat carrots](https://foodlets.com/2010/09/24/if-the-only-choice-is-carrots-kids-will-eat-carrots/) - IN VENDING MACHINE NEWS, there's actually a surprisingly hopeful finding. Thanks to the keen eye of Margaret Roach, my friend/mentor/idol, I recently read a Grist.org article where a high school in Ohio quickly turned junk foodies into carrot crunchers...by installing a baby carrot vending machine. Turns out, kids like snacks. If the available snacks are

## Pages

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- [Most Popular Recipes](https://foodlets.com/popular-recipes/) - Want to move toward a more nutritious family diet with more fresh but simple food? Start with the TOP RECIPES on Foodlets: Sauteed Spinach with Garlic (Starts with a Bag of Frozen Spinach!) Easy Blueberry Cobbler 3-Ingredient Rice Pudding How to Roast Frozen Cauliflower The Easy Homemade Bread Recipe Even Kids Can Make Themselves 2-Ingredient
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- [About](https://foodlets.com/about/) - My name is Charity Curley Mathews and as a mother of four, my dream is to have children who eat real food--natural food, often organic, rarely processed, sometimes ethnic--food. And that we'll do all of this eating together, at a table, making polite conversation and happy eating sounds like "mmm" and even "thanks for dinner!"
- [Work with me!](https://foodlets.com/about/cc-mathews-llc/) - I'm Charity Curley Mathews, blogger at foodlets.com and author of Super Simple Baking for Kids and more. I love creating content so much that I've been doing it for 20 years with amazing brands like these: Examples of My Work: Links to articles, recipes and projects below: Content creation for Food Network Strategy development for Martha
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## Recipes

- [low-sugar muffins with berries & ricotta cheese (a Food 52 Makeover)](https://foodlets.com/recipes/low-sugar-muffins-with-berries-ricotta-cheese-a-food-52-makeover/) - I always use a blend of whole wheat flour and organic all-purpose flour, and that's my recommendation for this recipe too. My gift-shaped pan makes 6 big muffins, using nearly all the batter from this recipe with a bit left over for a couple of muffins. If you don't want to dirty another pan, use
- [Low-Sugar Pineapple Coconut Mini Muffins](https://foodlets.com/recipes/low-sugar-pineapple-coconut-mini-muffins/) - These low-sugar muffins have a slightly tropical flavor and an added boost of nutrition from ground flaxseed or wheat germ. I like to bake with a mix of whole wheat and organic regular flour but any combination will do.
- [Black Bean Brownies](https://foodlets.com/recipes/black-bean-brownies/) - Adapted from a chick pea brownie recipe I cut out of the paper years ago. You can substitute garbanzo beans for the black beans.
- [Bread Cookies](https://foodlets.com/recipes/bread-cookies/) - This recipe came from an idea for lower sugar & fat cookies and because kids like to do cut out cookies which can be sticky & messy. Have been making these with children of all ages for many years and haven't met a child who didn't like them - even the older kids. I find
- [Vegetable Corn Chowder](https://foodlets.com/recipes/vegetable-corn-chowder/) - I adapted this soup recipe from Tyler Florence's corn chowder recipe. I wanted to get more veggies in my kids...and it's easy to disguise them in the creamy soup. And I've found that my kids have eventually come to like some of the veggies I've put in there. It's almost like it eases them into
- [Cabbage Jumbalaya](https://foodlets.com/recipes/cabbage-jumbalaya/) - The best way to convince my kids to eat cabbage is to combine it with sausage... ie. Sausage stuffed cabbage rolls, sausage & red cabbage or this...Cabbage Jumbalaya (and I think Jumbalaya is a really loose interpretation here). But this recipe is quick, easy, and simple to adjust to a healthier version. My kids definitely
- [Parmesan Risotto](https://foodlets.com/recipes/parmesan-risotto/) - Originally in Sunset Magazine. My kids call this "cheesy rice" and LOVE it!
- [The Best Crisp Ever](https://foodlets.com/recipes/the-best-crisp-ever/) - What we love about this recipe is it's simplicity (I'm not a whiz in the kitchen) and its broad appeal. You can really use any fruit or combination of fruits. The recipe also easily accommodates frozen fruit (like the piles of blackberries I currently have in my freezer). We've tweaked it to my families liking

## Categories

- [MISC](https://foodlets.com/category/misc/)
- [GOOD IDEAS](https://foodlets.com/category/good-ideas/)
- [GOOD READS](https://foodlets.com/category/good-reads/)
- [IN THE NEWS](https://foodlets.com/category/in-the-news/)
- [TOTAL FAILURES](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/total-failures/)
- [BAREFOOT FOR BABIES](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/barefoot-for-babies-recipes/)
- [ALL KID-FRIENDLY RECIPES](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/)
- [BABY FOOD](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/baby-food-all-kid-friendly-recipes/)
- [BREAKFAST](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/breakfast-kid-friendly-recipes/)
- [CHICKEN & TURKEY](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/chicken-turkey/)
- [DESSERTS](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/desserts-special-treats/)
- [DINNER](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/dinner-kid-friendly-recipes/)
- [LUNCH](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/lunch-kid-friendly-recipes/)
- [PASTA, RICE & GRAINS](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/pasta-rice-whole-grains/)
- [FISH & SEAFOOD](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/seafood-all-kid-friendly-recipes/)
- [SNACKS](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/snacks/)
- [SOUPS](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/soup-kid-friendly-recipes/)
- [BEEF](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/beef-all-kid-friendly-recipes/)
- [PORK](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/pork/)
- [SALADS](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/slads/)
- [SIDES & VEGETABLES](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/vetetables/)
- [SANDWICHES & PIZZA](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/sandwiches-pizza/)
- [DRINKS](https://foodlets.com/category/all-kid-friendly-recipes/drinks/)
- [BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEAS](https://foodlets.com/category/birthday-party-ideas/)
- [Key Ingredient](https://foodlets.com/category/key-ingredient/)
- [Feeding Kids Character](https://foodlets.com/category/good-ideas/feeding-kids-character/)
- [Workshop](https://foodlets.com/category/workshop/)
- [Trends](https://foodlets.com/category/trends/)
- [Backyard Chickens](https://foodlets.com/category/homesteading/backyard-chickens/)
- [Homesteading](https://foodlets.com/category/homesteading/)
- [Gardening](https://foodlets.com/category/homesteading/gardening/)
- [Picky](https://foodlets.com/category/picky/)

## Tags

- [30 minute](https://foodlets.com/tag/30-minute/)
- [activity](https://foodlets.com/tag/activity/)
- [apple](https://foodlets.com/tag/apple/)
- [baby food](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food/)
- [bacon](https://foodlets.com/tag/bacon/)
- [baked good](https://foodlets.com/tag/baked-good/)
- [Barefoot for Babies](https://foodlets.com/tag/barefoot-for-babies/)
- [beef](https://foodlets.com/tag/beef/)
- [better for you](https://foodlets.com/tag/better-for-you/)
- [birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/birthday-party/)
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- [brownies](https://foodlets.com/tag/brownies/)
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- [food allergies](https://foodlets.com/tag/food-allergies/)
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- [pasta](https://foodlets.com/tag/pasta/)
- [pescara italy](https://foodlets.com/tag/pescara-italy/)
- [pudding](https://foodlets.com/tag/pudding/)
- [puglia italy](https://foodlets.com/tag/puglia-italy/)
- [quick dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/quick-dinner/)
- [quick idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/quick-idea/)
- [restaurants](https://foodlets.com/tag/restaurants/)
- [Robyn O'Brien](https://foodlets.com/tag/robyn-obrien/)
- [scone](https://foodlets.com/tag/scone/)
- [seafood](https://foodlets.com/tag/seafood/)
- [snack](https://foodlets.com/tag/snack/)
- [soup](https://foodlets.com/tag/soup/)
- [strawberry](https://foodlets.com/tag/strawberry/)
- [sugar free](https://foodlets.com/tag/sugar-free/)
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- [top 10](https://foodlets.com/tag/top-10/)
- [total failure](https://foodlets.com/tag/total-failure/)
- [vegetarian](https://foodlets.com/tag/vegetarian/)
- [video](https://foodlets.com/tag/video/)
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- [white](https://foodlets.com/tag/white/)
- [whole grain](https://foodlets.com/tag/whole-grain/)
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- [year-round](https://foodlets.com/tag/year-round/)
- [20-minute dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/20-minute-dinner/)
- [barley](https://foodlets.com/tag/barley/)
- [blackberry](https://foodlets.com/tag/blackberry/)
- [carrots](https://foodlets.com/tag/carrots/)
- [cheese](https://foodlets.com/tag/cheese/)
- [cinnamon](https://foodlets.com/tag/cinnamon/)
- [fast dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/fast-dinner/)
- [fiber](https://foodlets.com/tag/fiber/)
- [fresh fruit dessert](https://foodlets.com/tag/fresh-fruit-dessert/)
- [peas](https://foodlets.com/tag/peas/)
- [pickles](https://foodlets.com/tag/pickles/)
- [plum](https://foodlets.com/tag/plum/)
- [raisins](https://foodlets.com/tag/raisins/)
- [shrimp](https://foodlets.com/tag/shrimp/)
- [summer dessert](https://foodlets.com/tag/summer-dessert/)
- [summer recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/summer-recipe/)
- [The Sneaky Chef](https://foodlets.com/tag/the-sneaky-chef/)
- [travels well](https://foodlets.com/tag/travels-well/)
- [wheat germ](https://foodlets.com/tag/wheat-germ/)
- [yellow](https://foodlets.com/tag/yellow/)
- [potato](https://foodlets.com/tag/potato/)
- [potato salad](https://foodlets.com/tag/potato-salad/)
- [baby food 4 months](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-4-months/)
- [baby food 5 months](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-5-months/)
- [baby food 6 months](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-6-months/)
- [baby food recipes](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-recipes/)
- [broccoli](https://foodlets.com/tag/broccoli/)
- [easy](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy/)
- [fast lunch idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/fast-lunch-idea/)
- [green](https://foodlets.com/tag/green/)
- [green beans](https://foodlets.com/tag/green-beans/)
- [meat](https://foodlets.com/tag/meat/)
- [pesto](https://foodlets.com/tag/pesto/)
- [tomatoes](https://foodlets.com/tag/tomatoes/)
- [zucchini](https://foodlets.com/tag/zucchini/)
- [baby brain development](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-brain-development/)
- [baby food 8 months](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-8-months/)
- [baby food freezer tray](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-freezer-tray/)
- [baby food puree](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-puree/)
- [baby food version](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-version/)
- [baby shower gift idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-shower-gift-idea/)
- [bell peppers](https://foodlets.com/tag/bell-peppers/)
- [berry](https://foodlets.com/tag/berry/)
- [best baby food products](https://foodlets.com/tag/best-baby-food-products/)
- [carrot babyfood](https://foodlets.com/tag/carrot-babyfood/)
- [cauliflower](https://foodlets.com/tag/cauliflower/)
- [fatty acid](https://foodlets.com/tag/fatty-acid/)
- [fennel](https://foodlets.com/tag/fennel/)
- [fish oil](https://foodlets.com/tag/fish-oil/)
- [low-sugar cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-cupcakes/)
- [orange foods](https://foodlets.com/tag/orange-foods/)
- [raspberry](https://foodlets.com/tag/raspberry/)
- [red peppers](https://foodlets.com/tag/red-peppers/)
- [roasted vegetables](https://foodlets.com/tag/roasted-vegetables/)
- [salad](https://foodlets.com/tag/salad/)
- [summer fruit](https://foodlets.com/tag/summer-fruit/)
- [toddler snack](https://foodlets.com/tag/toddler-snack/)
- [toddler version](https://foodlets.com/tag/toddler-version/)
- [vitamin c](https://foodlets.com/tag/vitamin-c/)
- [whole family meal](https://foodlets.com/tag/whole-family-meal/)
- [yellow peppers](https://foodlets.com/tag/yellow-peppers/)
- [holiday](https://foodlets.com/tag/holiday/)
- [cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/tag/cupcakes/)
- [cupcake](https://foodlets.com/tag/cupcake/)
- [halloween](https://foodlets.com/tag/halloween/)
- [party ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/party-ideas/)
- [coctail party idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/coctail-party-idea/)
- [cocktail party menu](https://foodlets.com/tag/cocktail-party-menu/)
- [easy entertaining](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-entertaining/)
- [Asian](https://foodlets.com/tag/asian/)
- [Chinese](https://foodlets.com/tag/chinese/)
- [parties](https://foodlets.com/tag/parties/)
- [girl birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/girl-birthday-party/)
- [8th birthday](https://foodlets.com/tag/8th-birthday/)
- [low sugar frosting](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-frosting/)
- [risotto](https://foodlets.com/tag/risotto/)
- [jumbalaya](https://foodlets.com/tag/jumbalaya/)
- [cabbage](https://foodlets.com/tag/cabbage/)
- [fast](https://foodlets.com/tag/fast/)
- [family friendly](https://foodlets.com/tag/family-friendly/)
- [fruit](https://foodlets.com/tag/fruit/)
- [frozen fruit](https://foodlets.com/tag/frozen-fruit/)
- [cajun](https://foodlets.com/tag/cajun/)
- [adults](https://foodlets.com/tag/adults/)
- [fun](https://foodlets.com/tag/fun/)
- [kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/kids/)
- [tea parties](https://foodlets.com/tag/tea-parties/)
- [healthy alternative](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-alternative/)
- [cookies](https://foodlets.com/tag/cookies/)
- [gift ideas for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/gift-ideas-for-kids/)
- [books about food](https://foodlets.com/tag/books-about-food/)
- [kids' books about food](https://foodlets.com/tag/kids-books-about-food/)
- [bread](https://foodlets.com/tag/bread/)
- [pumpkin](https://foodlets.com/tag/pumpkin/)
- [paula deen](https://foodlets.com/tag/paula-deen/)
- [recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/recipe-makeover/)
- [pantry](https://foodlets.com/tag/pantry/)
- [giveaway](https://foodlets.com/tag/giveaway/)
- [mix](https://foodlets.com/tag/mix/)
- [bar cookies](https://foodlets.com/tag/bar-cookies/)
- [9 months](https://foodlets.com/tag/9-months/)
- [nine months](https://foodlets.com/tag/nine-months/)
- [baby food for 9 month olds](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-for-9-month-olds/)
- [baby food for nine month olds](https://foodlets.com/tag/baby-food-for-nine-month-olds/)
- [guest post](https://foodlets.com/tag/guest-post/)
- [Barbra Austin](https://foodlets.com/tag/barbra-austin/)
- [christmas present](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-present/)
- [christmas gift](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-gift/)
- [christmas gifts for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-gifts-for-kids/)
- [christmas presents for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-presents-for-kids/)
- [foodie christmas present ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/foodie-christmas-present-ideas/)
- [christmas gifts for kids who like food](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-gifts-for-kids-who-like-food/)
- [christmas gifts for kids who like cooking](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-gifts-for-kids-who-like-cooking/)
- [winter fruit](https://foodlets.com/tag/winter-fruit/)
- [stone fruit](https://foodlets.com/tag/stone-fruit/)
- [plums](https://foodlets.com/tag/plums/)
- [vegetables](https://foodlets.com/tag/vegetables/)
- [vegetable](https://foodlets.com/tag/vegetable/)
- [fresh vegetables](https://foodlets.com/tag/fresh-vegetables/)
- [brown](https://foodlets.com/tag/brown/)
- [christmas gift ideas for cooks](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-gift-ideas-for-cooks/)
- [christmas present ideas for cooks](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-present-ideas-for-cooks/)
- [on-the-go](https://foodlets.com/tag/on-the-go/)
- [in the car](https://foodlets.com/tag/in-the-car/)
- [on a plane](https://foodlets.com/tag/on-a-plane/)
- [Black beans](https://foodlets.com/tag/black-beans/)
- [flourless](https://foodlets.com/tag/flourless/)
- [christmas](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas/)
- [low-sugar cookies](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-cookies/)
- [Christmas eve dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-eve-dinner/)
- [feast of seven fishes](https://foodlets.com/tag/feast-of-seven-fishes/)
- [Martha Stewart](https://foodlets.com/tag/martha-stewart/)
- [Christmas cookie](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-cookie/)
- [Weelicious](https://foodlets.com/tag/weelicious/)
- [oatmeal](https://foodlets.com/tag/oatmeal/)
- [barefoot contessa makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/barefoot-contessa-makeover/)
- [paula deen recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/paula-deen-recipe-makeover/)
- [paula deen makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/paula-deen-makeover/)
- [healthy dessert ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-dessert-ideas/)
- [ina garten](https://foodlets.com/tag/ina-garten/)
- [ina garten recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/ina-garten-recipe-makeover/)
- [halloween party](https://foodlets.com/tag/halloween-party/)
- [halloween party ideas for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/halloween-party-ideas-for-kids/)
- [halloween ideas for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/halloween-ideas-for-kids/)
- [summer dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/summer-dinner/)
- [easy dinner idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-dinner-idea/)
- [makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/makeover/)
- [martha stewart makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/martha-stewart-makeover/)
- [martha stewart recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/martha-stewart-recipe-makeover/)
- [spinach](https://foodlets.com/tag/spinach/)
- [green vegetable](https://foodlets.com/tag/green-vegetable/)
- [gwyneth paltrow](https://foodlets.com/tag/gwyneth-paltrow/)
- [gwyneth paltrow recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/gwyneth-paltrow-recipe-makeover/)
- [comfort food](https://foodlets.com/tag/comfort-food/)
- [comfort food makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/comfort-food-makeover/)
- [muffins](https://foodlets.com/tag/muffins/)
- [moroccan](https://foodlets.com/tag/moroccan/)
- [breakfast for dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/breakfast-for-dinner/)
- [quick](https://foodlets.com/tag/quick/)
- [honors and awards](https://foodlets.com/tag/honors-and-awards/)
- [gift ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/gift-ideas/)
- [valentine's day](https://foodlets.com/tag/valentines-day/)
- [gwyneth paltrow cookbook](https://foodlets.com/tag/gwyneth-paltrow-cookbook/)
- [special occasion](https://foodlets.com/tag/special-occasion/)
- [foodlets roundup of amazing ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/foodlets-roundup-of-amazing-ideas/)
- [David Lebovitz recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/david-lebovitz-recipe/)
- [David Lebovitz recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/david-lebovitz-recipe-makeover/)
- [Yahoo! Shine](https://foodlets.com/tag/yahoo-shine/)
- [Shine](https://foodlets.com/tag/shine/)
- [foodlets press](https://foodlets.com/tag/foodlets-press/)
- [press](https://foodlets.com/tag/press/)
- [david lebovitz](https://foodlets.com/tag/david-lebovitz/)
- [david lebovitz ginger cake recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/david-lebovitz-ginger-cake-recipe-makeover/)
- [birthday](https://foodlets.com/tag/birthday/)
- [kids' birthday parties](https://foodlets.com/tag/kids-birthday-parties/)
- [1st birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/1st-birthday-party/)
- [first birthday](https://foodlets.com/tag/first-birthday/)
- [first birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/first-birthday-party/)
- [low sugar birthday party cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-birthday-party-cake/)
- [healthier birthday party cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthier-birthday-party-cake/)
- [healthy birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-birthday-cake/)
- [low sugar birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-birthday-cake/)
- [eggs](https://foodlets.com/tag/eggs/)
- [fast dinner idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/fast-dinner-idea/)
- [real advice from real parents](https://foodlets.com/tag/real-advice-from-real-parents/)
- [eating out with kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/eating-out-with-kids/)
- [taking kids to restaurants](https://foodlets.com/tag/taking-kids-to-restaurants/)
- [baby's first birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/babys-first-birthday-cake/)
- [one year old birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/one-year-old-birthday-cake/)
- [low-sugar birthday cake recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-birthday-cake-recipe/)
- [potassium](https://foodlets.com/tag/potassium/)
- [old-fashioned recipes](https://foodlets.com/tag/old-fashioned-recipes/)
- [barefoot contesssa recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/barefoot-contesssa-recipe-makeover/)
- [pizza](https://foodlets.com/tag/pizza/)
- [asparagus](https://foodlets.com/tag/asparagus/)
- [spring](https://foodlets.com/tag/spring/)
- [spring food](https://foodlets.com/tag/spring-food/)
- [spring recipes](https://foodlets.com/tag/spring-recipes/)
- [spring vegetables](https://foodlets.com/tag/spring-vegetables/)
- [carrot](https://foodlets.com/tag/carrot/)
- [avocado](https://foodlets.com/tag/avocado/)
- [sneaky](https://foodlets.com/tag/sneaky/)
- [banana](https://foodlets.com/tag/banana/)
- [radio show](https://foodlets.com/tag/radio-show/)
- [Huffington Post](https://foodlets.com/tag/huffington-post/)
- [Shine from Yahoo!](https://foodlets.com/tag/shine-from-yahoo/)
- [potatoes](https://foodlets.com/tag/potatoes/)
- [jamie oliver's 30 minute meals](https://foodlets.com/tag/jamie-olivers-30-minute-meals/)
- [toddler-friendly](https://foodlets.com/tag/toddler-friendly/)
- [toddler food](https://foodlets.com/tag/toddler-food/)
- [one dinner works for the whole family](https://foodlets.com/tag/one-dinner-works-for-the-whole-family/)
- [burgers](https://foodlets.com/tag/burgers/)
- [grilled](https://foodlets.com/tag/grilled/)
- [naptime](https://foodlets.com/tag/naptime/)
- [apples](https://foodlets.com/tag/apples/)
- [pepperoni](https://foodlets.com/tag/pepperoni/)
- [salami](https://foodlets.com/tag/salami/)
- [barefoot contessa](https://foodlets.com/tag/barefoot-contessa/)
- [whole wheat pasta](https://foodlets.com/tag/whole-wheat-pasta/)
- [rice](https://foodlets.com/tag/rice/)
- [jessica seinfeld recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/jessica-seinfeld-recipe/)
- [easy recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-recipe/)
- [mini muffins](https://foodlets.com/tag/mini-muffins/)
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- [makeover recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/makeover-recipe/)
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- [Nigella Lawson makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/nigella-lawson-makeover/)
- [birthday party idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/birthday-party-idea/)
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- [berrylicious](https://foodlets.com/tag/berrylicious/)
- [make ahead dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/make-ahead-dinner/)
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- [slow-cooker](https://foodlets.com/tag/slow-cooker/)
- [no-cook](https://foodlets.com/tag/no-cook/)
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- [grilling](https://foodlets.com/tag/grilling/)
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- [cous cous](https://foodlets.com/tag/cous-cous/)
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- [pineapple](https://foodlets.com/tag/pineapple/)
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- [dorie greenspan](https://foodlets.com/tag/dorie-greenspan/)
- [fresh beans](https://foodlets.com/tag/fresh-beans/)
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- [sausage](https://foodlets.com/tag/sausage/)
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- [beans](https://foodlets.com/tag/beans/)
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- [tuna](https://foodlets.com/tag/tuna/)
- [artichokes](https://foodlets.com/tag/artichokes/)
- [Karen Le Billon](https://foodlets.com/tag/karen-le-billon/)
- [kiwi](https://foodlets.com/tag/kiwi/)
- [endive](https://foodlets.com/tag/endive/)
- [peaches](https://foodlets.com/tag/peaches/)
- [french kids eat everything](https://foodlets.com/tag/french-kids-eat-everything/)
- [cornbread](https://foodlets.com/tag/cornbread/)
- [honey](https://foodlets.com/tag/honey/)
- [honey butter](https://foodlets.com/tag/honey-butter/)
- [steak](https://foodlets.com/tag/steak/)
- [mushrooms](https://foodlets.com/tag/mushrooms/)
- [summer vegetable](https://foodlets.com/tag/summer-vegetable/)
- [healthier from a mix](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthier-from-a-mix/)
- [healthier from a box mix](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthier-from-a-box-mix/)
- [fruit dessert](https://foodlets.com/tag/fruit-dessert/)
- [pancakes](https://foodlets.com/tag/pancakes/)
- [featured foodlet](https://foodlets.com/tag/featured-foodlet/)
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- [lentils](https://foodlets.com/tag/lentils/)
- [applesauce](https://foodlets.com/tag/applesauce/)
- [oats](https://foodlets.com/tag/oats/)
- [sweet potatoes](https://foodlets.com/tag/sweet-potatoes/)
- [cucumber](https://foodlets.com/tag/cucumber/)
- [kale](https://foodlets.com/tag/kale/)
- [beets](https://foodlets.com/tag/beets/)
- [coconut milk](https://foodlets.com/tag/coconut-milk/)
- [chia seeds](https://foodlets.com/tag/chia-seeds/)
- [oat bran](https://foodlets.com/tag/oat-bran/)
- [EASY UPDATES](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-updates/)
- [Indian](https://foodlets.com/tag/indian/)
- [girl's birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/girls-birthday-party/)
- [St. Patrick's Day](https://foodlets.com/tag/st-patricks-day/)
- [American Grown](https://foodlets.com/tag/american-grown/)
- [BPA](https://foodlets.com/tag/bpa/)
- [cucumbers](https://foodlets.com/tag/cucumbers/)
- [quinoa](https://foodlets.com/tag/quinoa/)
- [book excerpt](https://foodlets.com/tag/book-excerpt/)
- [michelle obama](https://foodlets.com/tag/michelle-obama/)
- [Muffin Madness 2013](https://foodlets.com/tag/muffin-madness-2013/)
- [fast food](https://foodlets.com/tag/fast-food/)
- [nuggets](https://foodlets.com/tag/nuggets/)
- [almonds](https://foodlets.com/tag/almonds/)
- [lemon](https://foodlets.com/tag/lemon/)
- [Q&A](https://foodlets.com/tag/qa/)
- [arugula](https://foodlets.com/tag/arugula/)
- [chocolate cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/chocolate-cake/)
- [rainbow cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/rainbow-cake/)
- [individual cakes](https://foodlets.com/tag/individual-cakes/)
- [low-sugar dessert](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-dessert/)
- [birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/birthday-cake/)
- [low-sugar cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-cake/)
- [banana cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/banana-cake/)
- [butter cream frosting](https://foodlets.com/tag/butter-cream-frosting/)
- [chocolate butter cream frosting](https://foodlets.com/tag/chocolate-butter-cream-frosting/)
- [green bean](https://foodlets.com/tag/green-bean/)
- [chocolate chip cookies](https://foodlets.com/tag/chocolate-chip-cookies/)
- [almond meal](https://foodlets.com/tag/almond-meal/)
- [freeze](https://foodlets.com/tag/freeze/)
- [tomato sauce](https://foodlets.com/tag/tomato-sauce/)
- [one-pot](https://foodlets.com/tag/one-pot/)
- [one-pot dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/one-pot-dinner/)
- [one-pot meal](https://foodlets.com/tag/one-pot-meal/)
- [chicken dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/chicken-dinner/)
- [kid-friendly chicken dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/kid-friendly-chicken-dinner/)
- [low-sugar muffins](https://foodlets.com/tag/low-sugar-muffins/)
- [blueberry](https://foodlets.com/tag/blueberry/)
- [blueberries](https://foodlets.com/tag/blueberries/)
- [toddler approved](https://foodlets.com/tag/toddler-approved/)
- [preschooler approved](https://foodlets.com/tag/preschooler-approved/)
- [Foodlets Recipe Makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/foodlets-recipe-makeover/)
- [school lunch](https://foodlets.com/tag/school-lunch/)
- [packing school lunch](https://foodlets.com/tag/packing-school-lunch/)
- [applesauce in place of butter](https://foodlets.com/tag/applesauce-in-place-of-butter/)
- [sauteed vegetables](https://foodlets.com/tag/sauteed-vegetables/)
- [casserole](https://foodlets.com/tag/casserole/)
- [shapes](https://foodlets.com/tag/shapes/)
- [cherry tomato](https://foodlets.com/tag/cherry-tomato/)
- [cranberries](https://foodlets.com/tag/cranberries/)
- [honey instead of sugar](https://foodlets.com/tag/honey-instead-of-sugar/)
- [applesauce instead of oil](https://foodlets.com/tag/applesauce-instead-of-oil/)
- [coconut oil instead of butter](https://foodlets.com/tag/coconut-oil-instead-of-butter/)
- [jam](https://foodlets.com/tag/jam/)
- [turkey](https://foodlets.com/tag/turkey/)
- [chili](https://foodlets.com/tag/chili/)
- [fall recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/fall-recipe/)
- [flax seed](https://foodlets.com/tag/flax-seed/)
- [cumbers](https://foodlets.com/tag/cumbers/)
- [leftovers](https://foodlets.com/tag/leftovers/)
- [cheddar cheese](https://foodlets.com/tag/cheddar-cheese/)
- [homemade snack foods](https://foodlets.com/tag/homemade-snack-foods/)
- [what's so great about](https://foodlets.com/tag/whats-so-great-about/)
- [one-year-old birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/one-year-old-birthday-party/)
- [1-year-old birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/1-year-old-birthday-party/)
- [flax seeds](https://foodlets.com/tag/flax-seeds/)
- [honey in place of sugar](https://foodlets.com/tag/honey-in-place-of-sugar/)
- [applesauce in place of oil](https://foodlets.com/tag/applesauce-in-place-of-oil/)
- [preschool snack ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/preschool-snack-ideas/)
- [prunes](https://foodlets.com/tag/prunes/)
- [preschool snack](https://foodlets.com/tag/preschool-snack/)
- [make](https://foodlets.com/tag/make/)
- [hot dogs](https://foodlets.com/tag/hot-dogs/)
- [butternut squash](https://foodlets.com/tag/butternut-squash/)
- [celery](https://foodlets.com/tag/celery/)
- [sweet potato](https://foodlets.com/tag/sweet-potato/)
- [maple syrup](https://foodlets.com/tag/maple-syrup/)
- [Thanksgiving](https://foodlets.com/tag/thanksgiving/)
- [flaxseed](https://foodlets.com/tag/flaxseed/)
- [squash](https://foodlets.com/tag/squash/)
- [acorn squash](https://foodlets.com/tag/acorn-squash/)
- [cheese ball](https://foodlets.com/tag/cheese-ball/)
- [cream cheese](https://foodlets.com/tag/cream-cheese/)
- [no-nuts](https://foodlets.com/tag/no-nuts/)
- [nut free](https://foodlets.com/tag/nut-free/)
- [dinner in 30 minutes](https://foodlets.com/tag/dinner-in-30-minutes/)
- [apricot](https://foodlets.com/tag/apricot/)
- [dried fruit](https://foodlets.com/tag/dried-fruit/)
- [healthy preschool snack idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-preschool-snack-idea/)
- [healthy toddler snack idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-toddler-snack-idea/)
- [whole wheat](https://foodlets.com/tag/whole-wheat/)
- [party food](https://foodlets.com/tag/party-food/)
- [healthy snacks for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-snacks-for-kids/)
- [toddler snack food](https://foodlets.com/tag/toddler-snack-food/)
- [cheese balls](https://foodlets.com/tag/cheese-balls/)
- [great balls of cheese](https://foodlets.com/tag/great-balls-of-cheese/)
- [holiday snack](https://foodlets.com/tag/holiday-snack/)
- [holiday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/holiday-party/)
- [brussels sprouts](https://foodlets.com/tag/brussels-sprouts/)
- [garlic](https://foodlets.com/tag/garlic/)
- [rosemary](https://foodlets.com/tag/rosemary/)
- [year-end recap](https://foodlets.com/tag/year-end-recap/)
- [healthy recipes for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-recipes-for-kids/)
- [how to raise healthy eaters](https://foodlets.com/tag/how-to-raise-healthy-eaters/)
- [picky eaters](https://foodlets.com/tag/picky-eaters/)
- [sugar snap peas](https://foodlets.com/tag/sugar-snap-peas/)
- [grilled chicken](https://foodlets.com/tag/grilled-chicken/)
- [marinade](https://foodlets.com/tag/marinade/)
- [no-bake](https://foodlets.com/tag/no-bake/)
- [maple syrup instead of sugar](https://foodlets.com/tag/maple-syrup-instead-of-sugar/)
- [chocolate chips](https://foodlets.com/tag/chocolate-chips/)
- [raspberries](https://foodlets.com/tag/raspberries/)
- [healthy cookies for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-cookies-for-kids/)
- [make at nap time dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/make-at-nap-time-dinner/)
- [spaghetti squash](https://foodlets.com/tag/spaghetti-squash/)
- [tea party](https://foodlets.com/tag/tea-party/)
- [birthday party for 5 year old girl](https://foodlets.com/tag/birthday-party-for-5-year-old-girl/)
- [pink party](https://foodlets.com/tag/pink-party/)
- [swiss chard](https://foodlets.com/tag/swiss-chard/)
- [sugar free chocolate cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/sugar-free-chocolate-cake/)
- [first birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/first-birthday-cake/)
- [no sugar birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/no-sugar-birthday-cake/)
- [Irish food](https://foodlets.com/tag/irish-food/)
- [pinterest](https://foodlets.com/tag/pinterest/)
- [most pinned recipes for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/most-pinned-recipes-for-kids/)
- [peppers](https://foodlets.com/tag/peppers/)
- [basil](https://foodlets.com/tag/basil/)
- [Easter](https://foodlets.com/tag/easter/)
- [time saving dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/time-saving-dinner/)
- [serious eats recipe makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/serious-eats-recipe-makeover/)
- [smoothies](https://foodlets.com/tag/smoothies/)
- [picnic](https://foodlets.com/tag/picnic/)
- [sugar-free drinks for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/sugar-free-drinks-for-kids/)
- [no sugar drinks for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/no-sugar-drinks-for-kids/)
- [food 52 makeover](https://foodlets.com/tag/food-52-makeover/)
- [mother's day](https://foodlets.com/tag/mothers-day/)
- [teacher appreciation day](https://foodlets.com/tag/teacher-appreciation-day/)
- [the family cooks by laurie david](https://foodlets.com/tag/the-family-cooks-by-laurie-david/)
- [popsicles](https://foodlets.com/tag/popsicles/)
- [frozen treats](https://foodlets.com/tag/frozen-treats/)
- [no sugar frozen treats for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/no-sugar-frozen-treats-for-kids/)
- [sugar free popsicles for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/sugar-free-popsicles-for-kids/)
- [ice pops](https://foodlets.com/tag/ice-pops/)
- [melon](https://foodlets.com/tag/melon/)
- [cantaloupe](https://foodlets.com/tag/cantaloupe/)
- [bananas](https://foodlets.com/tag/bananas/)
- [peach](https://foodlets.com/tag/peach/)
- [corn](https://foodlets.com/tag/corn/)
- [lettuce](https://foodlets.com/tag/lettuce/)
- [barbeque](https://foodlets.com/tag/barbeque/)
- [15-minute dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/15-minute-dinner/)
- [100 days of real food](https://foodlets.com/tag/100-days-of-real-food/)
- [mango](https://foodlets.com/tag/mango/)
- [sorbet](https://foodlets.com/tag/sorbet/)
- [how to cook dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/how-to-cook-dinner/)
- [the family dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/the-family-dinner/)
- [how to teach toddlers manners](https://foodlets.com/tag/how-to-teach-toddlers-manners/)
- [how to teach kids manners](https://foodlets.com/tag/how-to-teach-kids-manners/)
- [1 dinner 2 ways](https://foodlets.com/tag/1-dinner-2-ways/)
- [2 dinners in 1](https://foodlets.com/tag/2-dinners-in-1/)
- [grapes](https://foodlets.com/tag/grapes/)
- [halloween food for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/halloween-food-for-kids/)
- [healthy halloween food for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-halloween-food-for-kids/)
- [party food for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/party-food-for-kids/)
- [kids can make](https://foodlets.com/tag/kids-can-make/)
- [healthy halloween ideas for kdis](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-halloween-ideas-for-kdis/)
- [one-bowl](https://foodlets.com/tag/one-bowl/)
- [2-in-1 dinners](https://foodlets.com/tag/2-in-1-dinners/)
- [crackers](https://foodlets.com/tag/crackers/)
- [food banks](https://foodlets.com/tag/food-banks/)
- [giving](https://foodlets.com/tag/giving/)
- [food is love](https://foodlets.com/tag/food-is-love/)
- [make at nap time](https://foodlets.com/tag/make-at-nap-time/)
- [easy dinner ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-dinner-ideas/)
- [nutrition](https://foodlets.com/tag/nutrition/)
- [healthy food for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-food-for-kids/)
- [teaching kids table manners](https://foodlets.com/tag/teaching-kids-table-manners/)
- [recipe excerpt](https://foodlets.com/tag/recipe-excerpt/)
- [cook once use twice](https://foodlets.com/tag/cook-once-use-twice/)
- [top 10 posts of 2014](https://foodlets.com/tag/top-10-posts-of-2014/)
- [sugar](https://foodlets.com/tag/sugar/)
- [shopping](https://foodlets.com/tag/shopping/)
- [simple sides](https://foodlets.com/tag/simple-sides/)
- [sesame seeds](https://foodlets.com/tag/sesame-seeds/)
- [pecans](https://foodlets.com/tag/pecans/)
- [no sugar treats](https://foodlets.com/tag/no-sugar-treats/)
- [coconut](https://foodlets.com/tag/coconut/)
- [DIY](https://foodlets.com/tag/diy/)
- [granola bars](https://foodlets.com/tag/granola-bars/)
- [how to save time](https://foodlets.com/tag/how-to-save-time/)
- [time savers](https://foodlets.com/tag/time-savers/)
- [make your own sandwich night](https://foodlets.com/tag/make-your-own-sandwich-night/)
- [3 Thumbs Up](https://foodlets.com/tag/3-thumbs-up/)
- [2 thumbs up](https://foodlets.com/tag/2-thumbs-up/)
- [2-in-1 dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/2-in-1-dinner/)
- [cook once eat twice](https://foodlets.com/tag/cook-once-eat-twice/)
- [puff pastry](https://foodlets.com/tag/puff-pastry/)
- [easy ethnic food for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-ethnic-food-for-kids/)
- [freezer meal](https://foodlets.com/tag/freezer-meal/)
- [peanuts](https://foodlets.com/tag/peanuts/)
- [lovehealthy](https://foodlets.com/tag/lovehealthy/)
- [make-ahead meal](https://foodlets.com/tag/make-ahead-meal/)
- [make-ahead breakfast](https://foodlets.com/tag/make-ahead-breakfast/)
- [mini food for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/mini-food-for-kids/)
- [finger food](https://foodlets.com/tag/finger-food/)
- [finger foods for babies](https://foodlets.com/tag/finger-foods-for-babies/)
- [finger foods for toddlers](https://foodlets.com/tag/finger-foods-for-toddlers/)
- [UNRECIPE](https://foodlets.com/tag/unrecipe/)
- [cute food for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/cute-food-for-kids/)
- [hummus](https://foodlets.com/tag/hummus/)
- [healthy smoothies](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-smoothies/)
- [mac & cheese](https://foodlets.com/tag/mac-cheese/)
- [mustard](https://foodlets.com/tag/mustard/)
- [food bank](https://foodlets.com/tag/food-bank/)
- [food drive birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/food-drive-birthday-party/)
- [dinner leftovers that make great school lunches](https://foodlets.com/tag/dinner-leftovers-that-make-great-school-lunches/)
- [dinner leftovers that make great kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/dinner-leftovers-that-make-great-kids/)
- [cute food](https://foodlets.com/tag/cute-food/)
- [kids can cook](https://foodlets.com/tag/kids-can-cook/)
- [cute kids' cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/tag/cute-kids-cupcakes/)
- [birthday cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/tag/birthday-cupcakes/)
- [baby's first birthday](https://foodlets.com/tag/babys-first-birthday/)
- [1st birthday](https://foodlets.com/tag/1st-birthday/)
- [healthy muffins](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-muffins/)
- [healthy cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-cake/)
- [1st birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/1st-birthday-cake/)
- [healthy first birthday cake](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-first-birthday-cake/)
- [first britcake](https://foodlets.com/tag/first-britcake/)
- [healthy party ideas for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-party-ideas-for-kids/)
- [healthy birthday party ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-birthday-party-ideas/)
- [healthy birthday party](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-birthday-party/)
- [birthday cakechocolate](https://foodlets.com/tag/birthday-cakechocolate/)
- [birthday parties](https://foodlets.com/tag/birthday-parties/)
- [homemade popsicles](https://foodlets.com/tag/homemade-popsicles/)
- [real fruit popsicles](https://foodlets.com/tag/real-fruit-popsicles/)
- [homemade snacks](https://foodlets.com/tag/homemade-snacks/)
- [sponsored post](https://foodlets.com/tag/sponsored-post/)
- [easy recipes](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-recipes/)
- [kid-tested](https://foodlets.com/tag/kid-tested/)
- [kids love](https://foodlets.com/tag/kids-love/)
- [recipes kids love](https://foodlets.com/tag/recipes-kids-love/)
- [watermelon](https://foodlets.com/tag/watermelon/)
- [Memorial Day](https://foodlets.com/tag/memorial-day/)
- [Labor Day](https://foodlets.com/tag/labor-day/)
- [cold meal](https://foodlets.com/tag/cold-meal/)
- [blackberries](https://foodlets.com/tag/blackberries/)
- [Italian](https://foodlets.com/tag/italian/)
- [ethnic food](https://foodlets.com/tag/ethnic-food/)
- [#triedit](https://foodlets.com/tag/triedit/)
- [Tried It](https://foodlets.com/tag/tried-it/)
- [cooking with kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/cooking-with-kids/)
- [Cook for the Cure](https://foodlets.com/tag/cook-for-the-cure/)
- [Susan G Komen](https://foodlets.com/tag/susan-g-komen/)
- [cooking for a cause](https://foodlets.com/tag/cooking-for-a-cause/)
- [Our American Kitchen](https://foodlets.com/tag/our-american-kitchen/)
- [eggplant](https://foodlets.com/tag/eggplant/)
- [olives](https://foodlets.com/tag/olives/)
- [Christmas cookies](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-cookies/)
- [Easy Christmas Cookies](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-christmas-cookies/)
- [Easy Christmas Cookies Kids Can Make](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-christmas-cookies-kids-can-make/)
- [15-minute dinner kids love](https://foodlets.com/tag/15-minute-dinner-kids-love/)
- [fast dinners](https://foodlets.com/tag/fast-dinners/)
- [sheet pan dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/sheet-pan-dinner/)
- [mini](https://foodlets.com/tag/mini/)
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- [quick food](https://foodlets.com/tag/quick-food/)
- [teach kids to love good food](https://foodlets.com/tag/teach-kids-to-love-good-food/)
- [sponsored](https://foodlets.com/tag/sponsored/)
- [dinner in a flash](https://foodlets.com/tag/dinner-in-a-flash/)
- [weeknight dinners kids love](https://foodlets.com/tag/weeknight-dinners-kids-love/)
- [weeknight dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/weeknight-dinner/)
- [roundup](https://foodlets.com/tag/roundup/)
- [bridge food](https://foodlets.com/tag/bridge-food/)
- [real school lunch](https://foodlets.com/tag/real-school-lunch/)
- [awesome school lunches](https://foodlets.com/tag/awesome-school-lunches/)
- [a year of eating intentionally](https://foodlets.com/tag/a-year-of-eating-intentionally/)
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- [smoothie](https://foodlets.com/tag/smoothie/)
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- [sheet pan](https://foodlets.com/tag/sheet-pan/)
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- [pie](https://foodlets.com/tag/pie/)
- [healthy oatmeal](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-oatmeal/)
- [pretzel](https://foodlets.com/tag/pretzel/)
- [christmas cookies kids can make](https://foodlets.com/tag/christmas-cookies-kids-can-make/)
- [shortcut recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/shortcut-recipe/)
- [fast recipe](https://foodlets.com/tag/fast-recipe/)
- [frozen berries](https://foodlets.com/tag/frozen-berries/)
- [salmon](https://foodlets.com/tag/salmon/)
- [recipes kids can make](https://foodlets.com/tag/recipes-kids-can-make/)
- [easy cupcake ideas](https://foodlets.com/tag/easy-cupcake-ideas/)
- [mermaid cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/tag/mermaid-cupcakes/)
- [fish cupcakes](https://foodlets.com/tag/fish-cupcakes/)
- [rice pudding](https://foodlets.com/tag/rice-pudding/)
- [cheese tortellini](https://foodlets.com/tag/cheese-tortellini/)
- [quick bread](https://foodlets.com/tag/quick-bread/)
- [hamburger](https://foodlets.com/tag/hamburger/)
- [ground beef](https://foodlets.com/tag/ground-beef/)
- [steel cut oats](https://foodlets.com/tag/steel-cut-oats/)
- [cookbooks for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/cookbooks-for-kids/)
- [cupcake cookbook for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/cupcake-cookbook-for-kids/)
- [homelessness](https://foodlets.com/tag/homelessness/)
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- [gift guide](https://foodlets.com/tag/gift-guide/)
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- [Greek food](https://foodlets.com/tag/greek-food/)
- [gift idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/gift-idea/)
- [indian food for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/indian-food-for-kids/)
- [Jamie Oliver recipe makoever](https://foodlets.com/tag/jamie-oliver-recipe-makoever/)
- [frozen spinach](https://foodlets.com/tag/frozen-spinach/)
- [dip](https://foodlets.com/tag/dip/)
- [goat cheese](https://foodlets.com/tag/goat-cheese/)
- [excerpt](https://foodlets.com/tag/excerpt/)
- [Tom Papa](https://foodlets.com/tag/tom-papa/)
- [gifts](https://foodlets.com/tag/gifts/)
- [tips](https://foodlets.com/tag/tips/)
- [frozen broccoli](https://foodlets.com/tag/frozen-broccoli/)
- [chores](https://foodlets.com/tag/chores/)
- [galette](https://foodlets.com/tag/galette/)
- [biscuits](https://foodlets.com/tag/biscuits/)
- [banana bread](https://foodlets.com/tag/banana-bread/)
- [one pot](https://foodlets.com/tag/one-pot-2/)
- [easter dinner](https://foodlets.com/tag/easter-dinner/)
- [graham crackers](https://foodlets.com/tag/graham-crackers/)
- [lunch for kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/lunch-for-kids/)
- [compost](https://foodlets.com/tag/compost/)
- [brown butter](https://foodlets.com/tag/brown-butter/)
- [butter](https://foodlets.com/tag/butter/)
- [fall recipes](https://foodlets.com/tag/fall-recipes/)
- [Greek yogurt](https://foodlets.com/tag/greek-yogurt/)
- [picky](https://foodlets.com/tag/picky/)
- [valentines day](https://foodlets.com/tag/valentines-day-2/)
- [picky eater](https://foodlets.com/tag/picky-eater/)
- [picky story](https://foodlets.com/tag/picky-story/)
- [food gift](https://foodlets.com/tag/food-gift/)
- [movies](https://foodlets.com/tag/movies/)
- [homemade bread](https://foodlets.com/tag/homemade-bread/)
- [lunchbox idea](https://foodlets.com/tag/lunchbox-idea/)
- [popcorn](https://foodlets.com/tag/popcorn/)
- [healthy kids](https://foodlets.com/tag/healthy-kids/)
- [mothers day gift](https://foodlets.com/tag/mothers-day-gift/)
- [mother's day gift](https://foodlets.com/tag/mothers-day-gift-2/)
- [quiche](https://foodlets.com/tag/quiche/)
- [onions](https://foodlets.com/tag/onions/)
- [onion](https://foodlets.com/tag/onion/)
- [tart](https://foodlets.com/tag/tart/)
- [pie dough](https://foodlets.com/tag/pie-dough/)