Healthy Twists On Junk Food Classics
When it comes to healthy eating, one of the worst things to do is make it a chore. Because when healthy food is boring, kids (and parents) don't exactly chow down, which defeats the purpose of making a nutritious meal in the first place. That doesn't mean that every meal has to be a comfort food, but sometimes it's a good idea to take a not-so-healthy kid favorite, like pizza or pancakes, and make it healthier. Check out these nutritious updates of everyone's favorite junk foods.
— brooklynsupper, Babble
Waffles
Waffles are a special breakfast treat all kids love. Make them healthier by using protein-packed quinoa flour and ripe bananas to add natural sweetness. To make sure no one goes crazy with the maple syrup, consider giving each kid a small jar of the sweet stuff instead of free reign over the giant bottle.
Make spiced banana quinoa waffles.
Pancakes
Pancakes are another oft-requested breakfast treat. Give them a nutritious makeover by using whole-grain flour and packing them full of veggies — yes, veggies. Vegetables with a natural sweetness, like carrots, zucchini, or beets, can add a lot of nutritional oomph and flavor to weekend breakfasts.
Pizza
Pretty much everybody loves pizza, but with lots of carb-rich dough and plenty of fatty cheese, it's not the healthiest dinner around. Breathe new life into this favorite by making your own whole-wheat crust and adding wholesome toppings, like fresh mozzarella, real tomatoes, and mushrooms.
Hamburgers
Give greasy drive-thru hamburgers a run for their money with these meat-free patties, packed with healthy white beans and savory flavor. Kids will love 'em because, well, they're still burgers; you'll love 'em because they're rich in protein, vitamins, and fiber.
French Fries
Every kid adores french fries, but they're far from healthy, what with all the oil they're dunked in to crisp up. Rehabilitate this junk food staple by skipping the frying pan and baking fries in the oven. Plus, using sweet potatoes adds extra fiber and beta carotene!
Click here for more Healthy Takes on Junk Food.
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