I am pretty fortunate in that no one in my household is particularly picky when it comes to produce at mealtimes. But that doesn’t mean I’m not constantly looking for creative ways to increase our fruit and vegetable intake. Here are 10 ways to add more fiber (and color!) to those dinner plates:
- Pickled vegetables are my go-to way to add vegetables to any meal. They keep for quite some time in the fridge and are an easy appetizer to serve. I am especially fond of this recipe for Asian pickled cabbage, and this one for pickled red onions.
- Casey Yeung’s Carrot Salad went viral for a reason! It’s a great way to use up leftover carrots in your crisper drawer.
- It’s been so hot in Houston that we have been fixated on smoothie-making. This Best Green Smoothie is endlessly customizable and makes quick work of a large bag of baby spinach.
- Spinach is also a great add to your morning muffins. These Sweet Spinach Muffins with Bananas are simple to make with a blender doing the heavy-lifting.
- Try subbing these Crispy Parmesan Baked Green Beans for fries at your next meal. My kids love dredging the beans with me.
- My kids love having grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. To up the vegetable intake even more, I include spinach to make Spinach Grilled Cheese.
- Subbing veggie spirals for pasta noodles is another easy way to add more greens to your diet. You can make your own or buy them. I like Trader Joe’s Hearts of Palm Pasta. Target also has a good option for Frozen Zucchini Spirals!
- This Zucchini Banana Bread is a vegetable-friendly alternative for breakfast. It’s even better when you add chocolate chips!
- Cowboy Caviar is my absolute favorite (veggie-packed) dip. It’s great with any type of chip, and if you don’t have time to make the dressing, substitute a jar of mild Pace Picante sauce (trust me, it works!).
- Finally, a frozen fruit salad is a great way to enjoy different fresh fruits. I like adding chopped mint for a little bit of zing.
What’s your secret for getting more produce on your family’s plates? Share your creative ideas and favorite recipes below!
