Eat the Rainbow with These Toddler-Friendly Healthy Recipes
by Susie Foresman
An easy way to give your child a balanced, nutritious diet is to serve a rainbow of healthy fruits and veggies. The fun mix of colors will grab baby’s attention—and supply a range of vitamins and minerals. We’ve gathered up 12 kid-friendly recipes that feature every color in the rainbow. Keep reading for ways to brighten up your meals.
Red: Tomato-y Chicken
Try out this tot-approved take on chicken nuggets from White Blank Space, inspired by Korean seasoned chicken. The spices are toned down for a young palate (the sauce is similar to ketchup, and is made with tomato paste), and the cornflake coating makes the nuggets extra crispy.
Strawberry Watermelon Smoothie
Smoothies tend to be a hit with the little ones, and this strawberry watermelon version from Tara’s Multicultural Table is no exception. It’s super refreshing and perfect for warm days.
Orange: Green Bean Fries with Sweet Potato Dip
We love the vibrant orange color of this delish dip from Frugal Mom Eh!—and it pairs perfectly with green bean “fries.” You can also dip tortilla chips or pieces of bread in the sweet potato-based dip.
Carrot, Potato and Sausage Soup
Next time you’re stumped on what to make for dinner, try this soup from Where Is My Spoon. It’s easy to make (most of the work is chopping veggies), and the flavor is a guaranteed kid-pleaser.
Yellow: Egg and Cheese Mini Muffins
Keep it simple with these 3-ingredient mini muffins from The Seasoned Mom. They’re the perfect size for tiny hands and an awesome way to sneak more protein into baby’s diet. Paired with some fruit and toast, you’ve got the perfect breakfast.
Broccoli Cheese Quinoa Bites
Sneak veggies and protein into your baby’s diet with these tasty bites from Family Food on the Table. Adjust them to your family’s taste by adding a different type of cheese or vegetable. They also freeze well so you can always have some at the ready.
Green: Green Macaroni and Cheese
Mac and cheese is always a winner with kids, and this green mac and cheese from Weelicious wins over parents with the addition of spinach, broccoli and peas. Great for St. Patrick's Day and all year long.
Green Smoothies
Your littlest ones can get their veggie fix with this tasty smoothie from The Natural Nurturer. Adding mango, pineapple and banana to the mix covers the spinach flavor, and avocado adds creaminess plus healthy fats.
Blue: Blueberry Peanut Butter Pancakes
Your Sunday breakfast inspiration is here, thanks to Also the Crumbs Please. These blueberry pancakes are kicked up a notch with the kid-approved addition of peanut butter.
Frozen Yogurt-Covered Blueberries
Make snack time a little healthier with this clever recipe from Peanut Butter & Peppers. The blueberry bites come together in no time using just two ingredients: Greek yogurt and blueberries.
Purple: Cherry Ice Pops
Get inspired by Cantillon Kitchen to whip up a batch of healthy ice pops. These are made with cherries, bananas, orange and coconut cream for a juicy, creamy flavor your child will love.
Fruit Roll-Ups
You'll never buy fruit roll-ups again once you've tried this healthy, easy version from A Mind “Full” Mom. You can experiment with different fruit combinations based on what’s in season.
What colorful foods do you like to feed your baby? Let us know in the comments below!